Emergency Guidebook

This hand book is a combination of material from the AT&T Performing Arts Center Emergency Preparedness Manuals for Winspear Opera House, Wyly Theatre and Annette Strauss Square. It is intended to establish policies, procedures and organizational structure for response to emergencies that are of a magnitude to cause a significant disruption of the activities of the Center.

This plan describes the roles and responsibilities of departments and personnel during emergency situations. The basic emergency procedures are designed to protect lives and property through effective use of Center resources. Since an emergency may be sudden and without warning, these procedures are designed to be flexible in order to accommodate contingencies of various types and magnitudes.

This handbook addresses several specific types of emergencies on an individual basis, and provides guidelines for the stabilization and recovery from the incident. These include emergency instructions and references in a concise format designated to manage resources.

Please read and review these procedures periodically so you are prepared to respond effectively should an emergency occur.

Radio Channel List

TWO-WAY RADIO GUIDELINES

• When using a two-way radio you cannot speak and listen at the same time, as you can with a phone.

• Pease remember to be brief with your message.

• Think before you speak.
  • Decide what you are going say and to whom it is meant for.
  • Make your conversations as concise, precise, and clear as possible.
  • Avoid long and complicated sentences. If your message is long, divide it into separate shorter messages.
  • Be aware that your first and last words may get cut off.
  • Do not use abbreviations unless they are well understood by your group.
  • There are standard abbreviated responses like Copy, Ten Four, What’s your 20, etc. SEE LIST BELOW

• Don’t interrupt or “step on” another conversation. Listen for conversation. If you hear one, wait until they are finished.
• Press the push to talk button (PTT button) and WAIT FOR THE CHIRP BEFORE YOU TALK
• Your first message is to establish contact
  • Call: “G Texas for Facilities” or “Kristal for Matt” (you might consider saying this twice because sometimes people are in a noisy area)
  • Response “Go ahead for Matt” or “This is Matt, Go Ahead”
• Press and hold the PTT button until you have finished talking.
• Let go of the PTT button to listen.
• Hold the radio approximately 3 inches from your mouth.
• Do not shout into the radio as it will distort your voice and your message will not be understood.
• Switch to a clear channel for lengthy conversations, but don’t forget to go back to your own channel after you’re done.
• When you first switch to another channel to speak to someone else, wait for a few seconds to see if another conversation is in progress before you start yours.
• During crises it is important to remain calm and to stop all non-essential radio communications.
• If you need Public Safety personnel to respond to your location, give your exact location and a brief explanation of your request so that the Public Safety personnel can prioritize their response.

• DO NOT USE TWO-WAY RADIOS TO TRANSMIT ANY INFORMATION DURING A BOMB THREAT.

FOUR GOLDEN RULES OF RADIO COMMUNICATION:

• Clarity – Your voice should be clear. Speak a little slower than normal. Speak in a normal tone, do not shout.
• Simplicity – Keep your message simple enough for intended listeners to understand.
• Brevity – Be precise and to the point.
• Security – Do not transmit confidential information on a radio unless you know the proper security technology is in place. Remember, frequencies are shared, you do not have exclusive use of the frequency.

SPEAK THE LANGUAGE

Electrical outages can occur at any time, and for any number of reasons. When the electricity fails, with the exception of Strauss Square, an emergency back-up generator is scheduled to provide emergency power. It takes less than 10 seconds to activate the emergency back-up generators. They will provide enough light to allow guests to leave safely, in case an event is in progress.

If the problem cannot be located and repaired within the reasonable length of time and the decision is made to cancel the event, the announcement to evacuate the venue will be made using the bullhorn and radioed to staff for communication to patrons along with the information regarding ticket refunds, rain checks, etc. 

DEPARTMENTAL  PROCEDURES

1. Manager-on-Duty (MOD):
   1. Ascertain the problem and possible impact in order to make decision regarding the continuation or cancellation of the event in progress.
2. Public Safety:
   1. Stand by to make radio announcements based on the MOD’s decisions.
   2. If the decision is made to evacuate the venue, follow the emergency evacuation procedures outlined in this guide.
3. Facilities Personnel:
   1. Notify the Manager-on-Duty of the cause of the power outage.
   2. Continue to provide updates and progress reports to the Manager-on-Duty.
   3. If external, contact Oncor (1-888-313-4747) to determine estimated length of the power outage.
   4. If internal, locate and initiate prompt repair.
   5. Additionally, the Associate Director of Facilities will be responsible for periodic testing and refueling of the back-up generator and the maintenance of test records.
4.  Patron Services:
   1. Attempt to keep guests in their seats for their own safety.
   2. Be prepared to activate the emergency evacuation plan.
5. Box Office, Administration and Stagehands:
   1. Remain in your areas for further instructions.
   2. Be prepared to activate the emergency evacuation plan.
6. Food and Beverage:
   1. Secure all equipment (i.e. refrigerators, freezers, cash register, etc.) starting with cash registers in case of damage due to power surges.
   2. Await further instruction.
   3. Be prepared to activate the emergency evacuation plan.

Hazardous materials are those substances which may represent one of the following hazardous material classes:

• FLAMMABLE (gasoline, cleaning solvents, etc.)
• EXPLOSIVE (fireworks, TNT)
• RADIOACTIVE (medical, isotopes, radium, etc.)
• COMPRESSED GAS (oxygen, nitrogen, etc.)
• HIGHLY REACTIVE (chlorine, phosphorous, etc.)
• SEVERE HEALTH HAZARD (poisons)
• CORROSIVES (batteries, acids, etc.)

All hazardous materials stored or used will have an appropriate sign displayed indicating the substance, safety precautions, and appropriate emergency actions to be taken in the event of an accident. In addition, all chemicals used will have material safety data sheets (MSDS) on record in DISPATCH. These material safety data sheets provide first aid recommendations in case of injury.

EMERGENCY PROTOCOL

1. Immediately clear the area and close all doors.
2. Notify DISPATCH 214-978-3620 (or on two-way radio CHANNEL 1).
3. If possible and the material is NON-TOXIC, contain the spill through the use of some suitable containment medium.
4. DO NOT wash hazardous materials into storm or sewer drains.
5. Small spills may be cleaned by qualified personnel. Large spills of toxic material require special training and equipment possessed by professional cleanup companies. The MOD will determine if outside help is needed for the cleanup process.
6. If outside help is needed DISPATCH will contact 911.

It is the responsibility of the first person that notices the disturbance to immediately notify DISPACTH via radio or at x3620 and report the following:

• The location of the group.
• The size of the assembled group.
• The observation of any weapons.
• The general feeling of the group (violent, agitated, etc.).

Manager On Duty

• Observe the situation from a safe distance to determine if the gathering is currently or potentially violent.
• Contact the appropriate managers and advise the next course of action.

CIVIL DISTURBANCE/RIOT

Public Safety

Once the call is received in DISPATCH the dispatcher will move cameras to obtain video footage, notify MOD and, if applicable, call 911 and report the emergency.

• Isolate the people and/or groups causing the disturbance by moving other guests away.
• If the lobby or concourses are involved, keep non-involved patrons moving.
• Do not let patrons stand and watch.
• Do not enter the mob unless it is necessary to do so in order to save someone from injury by mob participants.
• Beware of thrown items and remember there is the possibility that weapons may be present.

 Patron Services

If the lobby or concourses are involved, keep non-involved patrons moving.

• Do not let guests stand and watch.
• Do not enter the mob unless it is necessary to do so in order to save someone from injury by mob participants.
• Beware of thrown items and remember there is the possibility that weapons may be present.
• If the disturbance escalates into a full-scale riot while an event is taking place, the Manager on Duty will make the decision to turn up the lights and take action to move the performers to the safety of their dressing rooms.

All Staff

• Allow any patrons, who wish to do so, the opportunity to leave the venue.
• If the decision is made to cancel the event, emergency evacuation should be carried out in accordance with the policies stated in the Evacuations Procedures section of this manual.
• Once the venue has been cleared, secure all doors/gates.
• If the disturbance occurs in any of the Center controlled parking lots while the crowd is entering for an event, direct patrons to alternative parking areas.
• If the event is under way, secure all doors/gates into the venue to keep the disturbance/riot participants outside.
• If patrons are aware of the problem, attempt to calm them with an appropriate announcement on the PA system.
• If the event ends and there is still a problem, suggest to patrons that they remain inside until the situation is under control.

Although a plane crashing into The Center is highly unlikely, we are in the flight path to Love Field and must be prepared for this type of emergency.

STAFF PLANE CRASH PROCEDURES

In the event of a plane crashing into the venue, the two immediate issues to address will be to:

• Quell the panic.
  • The public announcement system should be utilized to calm the crowd.
  • Additionally, the usage of bullhorns maybe necessary to calm the crowd.
• Treat the injured.
  • The injured that are mobile should be assisted / directed to the First Aid Room or the designated triage area.
  • Those too seriously injured to be moved, should be made as comfortable as possible until medical assistance arrives.
  • Please be sure to call DISPATCH to report the locations of the seriously injured.
  • Evacuation should be started as quickly as possible following the evacuation procedures established in this document.

DEPARTMENTAL PLANE CRASH PROCEDURES

Manager on Duty:

• Instruct first aid teams to respond to the crisis.
• Start the evacuation of the venue as soon as possible.

Public Safety:

• Call 911.
• Initiate venue evacuation procedures.

First Aid:

• Begin triage of injured persons.

Facilities:

• Check venue for damage.
• Keep the Manager on Duty and DISPATCH informed.

Remaining Staff:

Proceed with evacuation as established in this document, when ordered.

Initial Notification of Severe Weather

AccuWeather has been retained by AT&T Performing Arts Center to assist and advise us with all severe weather situations. This includes access to the best radar and forecasting models as well as access to a meteorologist that is monitoring our campus. The MOD will be in contact with AccuWeather leading up to, during, and following any severe weather occurrences. In addition, a NOAA weather radio with tone alerts is at DISPATCH – Winspear Opera House Level 1.

The NOAA radio is kept “ON” at all times. Once an alert is received, the radio will automatically tune to the local reporting station’s channel and the specifics of the alert will be broadcast. During periods of severe weather, DISPATCH should be designated to monitor the weather on television, AM/FM radio, internet site(s), and other means available to receive notification of severe weather situations.

SEVERE WEATHER/TORNADO

If the severe storm WATCH or WARNING information affects Dallas County, the person receiving the WATCH or WARNING must then notify the MOD. The MOD, or their designee, will evaluate the situation, and when applicable initiate the Severe Weather Emergency Team (SWET).

Severe Weather Emergency Team (SWET) Coordinator

If the Downtown Dallas area falls under a Severe Weather Watch, the Manager-on-Duty is automatically assigned as the Severe Weather Emergency Team (SWET) Coordinator. NOTE: If the designated SWET Coordinator is unable to participate, the next person in line shall assume the duties.

While the SWET Coordinator is responsible for initiating any actions taken by the staff, consultation and coordination with other staff members is absolutely necessary. All decisions concerning the course of action are to be determined by the SWET Coordinator. He or she should delegate responsibilities as he or she deems necessary for the current situation.

Tornado Evacuation Procedures

For events at the Winspear Opera House, should be advised to move to or stay in the audience chamber to shelter in place. The Prothro Lobby, Hamon Hall, and any area with windows or glass should be cleared of all individuals. For events at the Wyly Theatre, patrons should be advised to move to Levels 2 and 0. All other areas of the Wyly are unsafe for sheltering.

For events at Annette Strauss Square, patrons should be directed to designated safer shelter in Lexus Red and the Arts District garage. Additionally, guests should NOT try to get in their automobiles and outrun the storm. There is no safe area of Annette Strauss Square, so all guests must be evacuated from the venue. If we are notified by AccuWeather that a tornado is likely to hit Downtown Dallas and that they are advising us to evacuate, an approximate length of time will be determined by AccuWeather and the MOD/SWET Coordinator.

This information is important to determine the next course of action. If sufficient time exists, the Evacuation Plan should go into effect in all areas. If marginal time exists, immediate notification should be made to all areas to effect as much of the total Tornado Plan as possible with the time given. The Patron Services Staff and any other persons in authority and in radio communication with one another should get bullhorns in hand and be prepared to direct persons as needed, if the program is unable to continue. The bullhorns can also be used to direct patrons out of potentially dangerous areas where they may have wandered.

Please note!

The evacuation procedures are intended to be a guideline. The procedures listed might only be fully executed under ideal conditions. Procedures might have to be altered depending on the amount of time available, the number of persons occupying the venue and the type of event.

AT&T PAC management will ensure a weather situational awareness plan for potential lightning is in place the day before and the day of the scheduled event. Staff will monitor the local weather via three (3) or more of the following services:

television news coverage, the Internet, cable and satellite weather programming, AccuWeather, NOAA weather radio, and National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts. NWS Advisories, Watches, Warnings and Hazardous Weather Outlooks (HWO) can be monitored at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/fwd/. Thunderstorms and severe weather forecasts also are online at http://www.spc.noaa.gov.

If thunderstorms are forecast for the day of the event, the Manager-on-Duty (MOD) / SWET Coordinator will review the Emergency Preparedness Manual before the event and identify the responsible officials and chain of command to implement the severe weather plan. Specifically, the MOD / SWET Coordinator will designate a weather watcher for the event who will notify the MOD / SWET Coordinator of the status of any thunderstorm that may threaten the safety of the event. 

Public Information

If conditions warrant, staff will notify patrons through appropriate means.

Designated Shelters

• Lexus Red Parking
• Wyly Theatre
• Arts District Garage
• Information Center
• Winspear Opera House
• Lexus Silver Parking

If a substantial building is not available, enclosed motor vehicles can provide shelter as long as patrons do not touch the metal framework during the thunderstorm.

Things to Note

• No place outside is safe if lightning is in the vicinity.
• Partially enclosed areas and tents are not safe.
• If no safe shelter is available, direct patrons to stay away from the tallest objects (trees, light poles, flag poles), metal objects (fences or bleachers), standing pools of water, and open fields.
• If patrons are still in transit to the venue, encourage them to
• remain in their vehicles until the lightning threat has ended.

During the event

The MOD / SWET Coordinator will use weather monitoring and lightning detection tools along with local observations to help determine the proximity of lightning and which safety actions to implement. The direction and speed of an approaching thunderstorm should be accounted for along with locally developing storms that may form nearby or overhead. If lightning is in the vicinity, the following procedures are recommended

Lightning within fifteen (15) miles of the venue:

• AccuWeather notifies the MOD / SWET Coordinator of elevated lightning risk. MOD / SWET Coordinator notifies the event staff. Please note that the AccuWeather notification will be 20 minutes prior to the lightning reaching the 15 mile radius which allows additional time for planning.
• Venue management notifies all staff members of the potential for a delay. Designated staff members are stationed to direct patrons to the proper shelters.
• Venue management informs all event staff of an impending delay. Event staff members are stationed to direct the crowd to the proper shelters.
• An evacuation of the venue will begin if it appears the thunderstorm is moving toward the venue.

Lightning within twelve (12) miles of the venue:

• AccuWeather notifies the MOD / SWET Coordinator of impending lightning threat. MOD / SWET Coordinator notifies the event staff. Please note that the AccuWeather notification will be 20 minutes prior to the lightning reaching the 12 mile radius which allows additional time for evacuation.
• Venue management informs all event staff that the event has been suspended due to lightning in the area. Staff members are positioned to direct the crowd to the proper shelters.
• Evacuation of the venue begins.
• All patrons are directed to the nearest lightning-safe shelter (see designated shelters).
• All event performers and officials will be evacuated to predesignated safe shelter areas.

Lightning within ten (10) miles of the venue:

• AccuWeather notifies the MOD / SWET Coordinator of imminent lightning. Event officials suspend activities.
• At this point the evacuation should be completed and all staff and guests should be in safer shelter.

Resuming the Event

The MOD / SWET Coordinator will continue to monitor the proximity of thunderstorms and utilize local observations to make an informed decision, determining the appropriate time to resume the event. Officials may then allow for activities to resume after 30 minutes of no detected lightning strikes within a less than ten (>10) mile radius of the venue. Event patrons will then be notified via bullhorn that the lightning threat has ended and the time of the restart of the event.

Until recently, Texas was generally not prone to earthquakes. If ever a major tremor occurs, expect one or more aftershocks of varying intensity, including the possibility of numerous major earthquakes in the same area.

EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURES FOR STAFF

BE PREPARED:

• Everyone should know the location of nearest phones, evacuation routes, and the emergency medical supplies.
• All employees should regularly review this emergency response manual.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE:

1. When the ground shakes…
2. If inside a building, don’t run out. Most injuries are from falling objects, not collapsing buildings.
3. Drop, Cover and Hold under a desk or table within the first 3-4 seconds of shaking. Stay there until the shaking stops.
4. Stay away from glass and overhanging objects. 4. If you don’t have a desk or table, get low. Think beneath, beside, between.
   1. Getting beneath any desk or table is the best option.
   2. Sit beside an inside wall.
   3. Get low beside heavy furniture
   4. Crouch low between rows of chairs in a theater.
5. If you are outside in an open area, sit down and cover your head with your arms.

NOTE: Doorways are NOT a recommended safe place in an earthquake. It is difficult to stay in the doorway during the shaking and the door often causes injury when it swings open and closed during the shaking.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE:

1. Following the earthquake, evacuate to an open area as quickly as possible.
2. Never use elevators.
3. If you are unable to evacuate, DO NOT use candles, matches, or any other type of open flame after an earthquake because of possible gas leaks in the area.
4. If possible, control patron panic and warn them not to run or crowd the exits.
5. Be prepared for aftershocks.
6. Check for injuries.
7. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.
8. Notify emergency response personnel of any injuries.
9. If possible, turn on an AM/FM radio to get the latest emergency bulletins and instruction from local authorities.
10. Look for danger signs of building collapse, hazardous materials, gas leaks, or fire and take appropriate action. All damage assessment and medical / police / fire response will be coordinated from the Command Post. This site will also serve as the central communications and casualty information center. Upon completion of damage and employee location checks, all departments shall report their findings to the Command Post.

BOMB THREAT FORM

PLAN AND PROCEDURES

All bomb threats will be taken seriously. The Manager-on-Duty (MOD) will consult with the Dallas Police Department to determine the appropriate course of action. All bomb threats are not legitimate and evacuation is not always required. In most cases, the fire alarm should not be activated in the event of a bomb threat.

Responding To Bomb Threats

Employees must be well versed in what to do if a bomb threat call is received. A calm response to the bomb threat caller could result in obtaining additional information. This is especially true if the caller wishes to avoid injuries or deaths. If told that the venue is occupied or cannot be evacuated in time, the bomb threat caller may be willing to give more specific information on the bomb’s location, components, or methods of initiation. Each workstation should have a bomb threat checklist. Checklists are available through Public Safety and on the Bomb Threat Checklist of this manual.

When A Bomb Threat Is Called In:

1. Remain calm
2. Do not use the two-way radio to transmit any information.
3. Attempt to keep the caller on the line as long as possible. Ask him/her to repeat the message. Record every word spoken by the person and use the telephone bomb threat checklist.
   1. Ask for the exact location where bomb has been or is going to be placed.
   2. Get as much information as possible about the caller, e.g., vocal characteristic, race, sex, group affiliation, why the bomb was placed.
   3. Clues from background noises, which might indicate caller’s identification and location.
4. Immediately after the caller hangs up, report the threat to DISPATCH and your supervisor. DISPATCH will report the threat to 911 and notify the MOD.
5. Remain available, as law enforcement personnel will want to interview you
6. MOD will report to the command post to await first responders.
7. Wait for further direction from Public Safety or the MOD.
8. Do not spread rumors.

When A Written Threat Is Received:

• Remain calm.
• Avoid handling it unnecessarily in order to preserve possible fingerprint(s), handwriting or typewriting, paper, and postal marks. These will prove essential in tracing the threat and identifying the writer.
• While written messages are usually associated with generalized threats and extortion attempts, a written warning of a specific device may occasionally be received; it should never be ignored.
• Contact DISPATCH.
• Wait for further direction from Public Safety or the MOD.
• Do not spread rumors.
•  

Some physical characteristics of suspicious packages and letters include the following:

• Excessive postage
• Handwritten or poorly typed addresses
• Incorrect titles
• Title, but no name
• Misspellings of common words
• Oily stains, discoloration or odor
• No return address
• Excessive weight
• Lopsided or uneven envelope
• Protruding wires or aluminum foil
• Excessive security material such as masking tape, string, etc.
• Visual distractions
• Ticking sound
• Marked with restrictive endorsements, such as “Personal” or “Confidential”
• Shows a city or state in the postmark that does not match the return address
• Foreign Mail, Air Mail and Special Delivery

When A Suspicious Object or Package Is Discovered:

• Remain calm.
• The finder must not disturb or move the suspected object.
• Clear all persons from the immediate vicinity.
• Inform DISPATCH.
• Retreat to a safe distance and warn others to avoid the area.
• Be available to provide the whereabouts of the suspected object to the police.
• Wait for further direction from Public Safety or the MOD.
• Do not spread rumors

BASICS:

• Dr. ABC (Danger check, Responsiveness check, Airway, Breathing, CPR)
• R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevate)
• F.A.S.T (Facial drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to dial 911)

Medical Emergency Video

The intent of this section is to provide basic guidelines for handling medical emergencies ranging from minor to serious injuries or death.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL PROCEDURES

Medical emergencies/injuries are classified into three categories:

• MINOR INJURIES are those which can be handled by basic first aid procedures and do not require immediate additional medical treatment or transportation.
• SERIOUS NON-LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES are those which require immediate medical attention beyond first aid which can be provided on site. These injuries do not require ambulance transportation.
• SERIOUS/LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES are those which require immediate ambulance transportation to a medical facility.

STAFF PROCEDURES

WITH MINOR INJURIES

• notify your supervisor and DISPATCH.
• Take appropriate first aid measures.

WITH SERIOUS NON-LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES

• take immediate action and appropriate first aid measures.
• Notify supervisor and DISPATCH as soon as possible.

WITH SEIOUS LIFE-THREATENING INJURIES

• take immediate action by notifying DISPATCH. Make sure to:
• |State the exact location of the injured person and the severity of the injury.
• If trained, provide immediate first aid and / or CPR measures as needed.

CALLING 911

If necessary, DISPATCH will contact 911 and proceed to have a Public Safety Officer or other employee meet the incoming ambulance at the place of their arrival and direct them to the venue entrance or location where the injured person is located.

• No employee shall interfere with medical treatment provided by the medical team.
• DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MOVE injured individual(s) unless his / her life is in danger at that location. Upon arrival of the ambulance, be prepared to provide any needed information to the Paramedics / EMT.
• Make sure to note which hospital / clinic the injured person is being transported to for the incident report.

FATALITY

In the event that an individual appears to have died due to injury or illness

• Procedures outlined under “life-threatening” will be followed.
• The only exception to this would be where a person is “obviously dead.” In these cases, first aid and/or CPR would be inappropriate.

Suspicious deaths are a law enforcement matter and tampering or moving of deceased individuals by unauthorized persons could constitute a violation of law.

If an individual is discovered who is “obviously dead”

• ALL guests in the immediate area will be cleared from the area but asked not to leave until released by a law enforcement officer.
• The deceased individual will NOT be covered nor the surrounding area altered in any manner.
• The area should be closed off by Public Safety.
• If the deceased is in public view, the body may be covered at the direction of a law enforcement officer.
•  

Additional considerations and medical emergencies:

Call DISPATCH at 214-978-3620 (or on two-way radio CHANNEL 1).

• Whenever possible, do not leave an individual requiring medical assistance unattended.
• If you are dealing with a conscious adult who refuses assistance, make a notation on the incident report.
• If you are dealing with an under-age person, obtain the following information:
  • Their name and age.
  • The name and phone number of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

FIRE BASICS:

• RESCUE
• CONFINE
• ALERT
• FIGHT

Fire Evacuation Video

If you discover fire or smoke:

RESCUE: Remove anyone from the immediate area. This means the room of origin or immediate vicinity of the fire. This is NOT an evacuation of the premises.

CONFINE: Close the door to the room of origin. This will act to contain the fire and smoke to that room for a longer period of time.

ALERT: Call DISPATCH at 214-978-3620 (or on two-way radio CHANNEL 1) and give the following information:

• Your name
• Nature of the problem: Fire, Medical, etc.
• Location
• Telephone number you are calling from.

FIGHT: If the fire is small and confined to one object (such as a trash can), locate the appropriate fire extinguisher for fighting that type of fire and use it. Only attempt to fight a fire IF:

1. You know how to operate the fire extinguishing equipment;
2. You have the appropriate type of extinguisher;
3. The fire is small;
4. You have the access to an exit if you fail to put the fire out.

Hand extinguishers

How to operate extinguishers:

PASS

• Pull the pin.
• Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle.
• Sweep from side to side, aiming at the base of the fire.

DEPARTMENTAL PROCEDURES

Manager-on-Duty:

1. Report the incident immediately to DISPATCH (214-978-3620 or on two-way radio CHANNEL 1).

2. Obtain details of the incident and make necessary decisions.

Public Safety:

1. Activate the emergency evacuation plan.

Patron Services:

1. Evacuate all patrons per the general evacuation plan.

Facilities and Operations:

1. Determine the fire location.
2. Assist in containing the fire, if possible.
3. Activate the evacuation plan.

Food and Beverage:

1. If fire is located in the cooking/kitchen area, assist in containing the fire, if possible.

2. Activate the evacuation plan.

Production:

1. If the fire is in an area that is under your control assist in containing the fire, if possible.

2. Activate the evacuation plan.

All other personnel:

1. Activate the evacuation plan.

Fire Considerations:

Report the fire immediately using the proper method. If the fire is extinguished, no matter how small it was, it is still important that DISPATCH is made aware of the incident.

Close doors to contain the fire and smoke. 

Do not lock doors.

Stay low; heat and smoke rise. Hot air can scorch a person’s lungs and smoke may contain poisonous fumes that can cause death. Take short breaths and breathe through your nose. Cover your face with a piece of cloth to filter out smoke.

Feel doors for signs of heat prior to opening. Do not open doors where heat is intense.

Always learn the location of the nearest fire extinguisher to your work area.

During an evacuation, direct people away from the fire or smoke to an area outside the venue, ensure the shortest safe route possible for evacuation.

Once outside the affected area, move people away from the building to the designated assembly points and assign staff to take roll to locate missing employees.

Watch for falling materials or electrical wires.

Do not reenter the venue until the all clear has been given by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and/or the MOD.

BASICS:

• RUN
• HIDE
• FIGHT

RUN—HIDE—FIGHT! (FBI Video)

If you suspect a potential active aggressor attack event in the vicinity, you must quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect primarily your own life and secondarily the life of others.

Upon arrival on your post / office always be aware of your immediate environment and any possible dangers that may arise. Have an escape route and protective plan in mind even if everything appears normal.

Additionally, take note of the nearest exits to your location. 

RUN

In the event of an active aggressor event, attempt to run away from the sound of gunfire, putting as much distance as possible between you and the aggressor.

If you can identify an accessible escape path, use it to evacuate the venue. Evacuate the venue regardless of whether others agree to follow your escape. If possible, help others to escape.

During the course of the incident, if an evacuation is possible, leave your belongings behind and keep your hands visible so it is clear to law enforcement and first responders that you are not armed.

To prevent additional potential casualties, attempt to warn others to not enter the area where the active aggressor may be.

During the attack, do not attempt to move wounded people to a place of safety, since that is the responsibility of the medical emergency first responders.

If it is safe to do so, evacuate to the pre-established meeting spots.

When law enforcement arrives, always follow the instructions of the any police officers at the scene.

HIDE

If safe evacuation from the premises is not possible, you should find a place to hide where the active aggressor is less likely to find you. If you are in an office, for example, stay there and secure the door.

To prevent an active aggressor from entering your hiding place, lock the door, and then blockade it with heavy furniture or other large items if possible, such as cabinets or desks. At this point hide behind these items.

In hiding, consider the difference between cover and concealment. Cover will likely protect you from potential gunfire, while concealment will merely hide you from the view of the aggressor but might not necessarily protect you from gunfire.

And remember at all times to remain quiet and SILENCE your cell phone because even in the vibration setting, it can give away a hiding position. Other devices such as a two-way radio must be turned off.

Your hiding place should be out of the active aggressor’s view.

Move away from windows as this will provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.

Ensure that your hiding place will not trap you or restrict your options for movement later on.

FIGHT

When hiding from the aggressor is not possible and only as an absolute last resort, you should attempt to disrupt and or incapacitate the aggressor by acting as aggressively as possible against the aggressor. Throwing items at the aggressor, improvising weapons to confuse him, yelling, while at all times steadfastly committing to your disruptive actions.

CALL 911

When it becomes safe to do so, call 911 to report the incident and obtain help. When possible provide the following information to the 911 dispatchers:

• Location of the active aggressor
• Number of aggressors
• Physical description of the aggressor(s)
• Number and type of weapons held by the aggressor(s)
• Number of potential victims at the location

If you cannot speak at your normal tone or even whisper, leave the line open to allow the 911 dispatcher to listen in on the event.

Emergency 911

Poison Control

• (800) 222-1222

JUNO (when at the Wyly)

• (214) 878-3970

DISPATCH

• (214) 878-3620

Oncor Electric Delivery

• (888) 313-4747

Atmos Energy

• (800) 460-3030 or (877) 290-3722

Office of Emergency Management Dallas

• (214) 670-4275

Evacuation in an orderly manner is necessary in order to assure that people vacate a dangerous area as quickly as possible.

• Annette Strauss Square employees must care for themselves, and must see that patrons are guided from the venue to safety. Annette Strauss Square employees should be the last to evacuate the venue.
• It is the responsibility of all Annette Strauss Square employees to understand and make themselves familiar with this Emergency Preparedness Manual.
• To assist each employee with evacuation routes, maps are included in the document immediately following the evacuation procedures.

When an evacuation is initiated, everyone in the venue MUST evacuate immediately.

Evacuation assembly points are as follows:

• General Assembly – Lexus Red Parking, Level P1
• Family Unification – Northwest Corner Lexus Red Parking, Level P1

These areas will be generally safe from flying debris and out of the way of first responders.

EMPLOYEE EVACUATION

There are work areas in Annette Strauss Square where employees work on a regular basis and are visited by vendors and/or contractors. All employees should be familiar with the evacuation routes for their respective areas. In addition to knowing the evacuation routes, department heads should ensure the following:

• An immediate head count should be taken of everyone who has evacuated the venue and is present at the evacuation point. Those who may be absent from the head count must be immediately brought to the attention of the emergency response personnel at the scene.
• Small offices or areas should evacuate together at the same time. A quick head count shall be made and all persons should leave together, helping those who may need help or may be disabled. Always be sure to check restrooms for someone who may not be aware of the hazard, or that an evacuation is in progress. This should be done by either the department supervisor or assistant.
• All evacuated persons gather at the evacuation assembly points outside the building. A head count shall be taken and no one should leave this area until they have been accounted for and released by their supervisor.
• No staff or guests attempt to re-enter the venue without permission. The Manager on Duty will notify employees when it is permissible to re-enter the venue.

EVACUATION ROUTES

Seated Areas

• Proceed out of the seating areas and out of the main gates located on the south end of the venue and into Lexus Red via he escalators or stairs at the Information Center.

GA Areas

• Exit through the west end of the venue through alley and into the Arts District Garage. From the Arts District Garage all evacuees should then proceed to Lexus Red.

Backstage Areas

• Proceed from the backstage area up to the main gates located at the south end of the venue and into Lexus Red via the escalators or stairs at the Information Center.

Evacuation in an orderly manner is necessary in order to assure that people vacate a dangerous area as quickly as possible.

• Winspear Opera House employees must see that patrons are guided from the venue to safety.
• Winspear Opera House employees should be the last to evacuate the venue.
• It is the responsibility of all Winspear Opera House employees to understand and make themselves familiar with this Emergency Preparedness Manual.
• To assist each employee with evacuation routes, maps are included in the document,
  immediately following the evacuation procedures.

EVACUATION When an ALARM sounds:

General

• Any time that the alarm system is activated everyone in the venue MUST evacuate immediately.
• Go to the exit nearest your post and exit the venue. Move to the nearest evacuation gathering point.
• If the nearest exit to your post is blocked by fire or smoke, go in another direction to the nearest exit and follow the above procedures.

Evacuation assembly points are as follows:

• Flora Street by the Donor Reflecting Pool
• Woodall Rodgers access road by the AT&T PAC marquee
• Family Unification Point directly in front of the Information
  Center

These areas will be generally safe from flying debris and out of the way of first responders.

EMPLOYEE EVACUATION

There are areas in the Winspear Opera House (such as administrative offices, Box Office and kitchen) where employees work on a regular basis and are visited by vendors and/or contractors.

• All employees must be
  familiar with the evacuation routes for their respective areas.
• For those employees who are normally in a stationary work area, evacuation routes should be determined in advance, with a second or third route established in the event the quickest evacuation route is blocked or not accessible.

In addition to knowing the evacuation routes, department heads should ensure the following:

• An immediate head count should be taken of everyone who has evacuated the venue and is present outside.
• Those who may be absent from the head count must be immediately brought to the attention of the emergency response personnel at the scene.

Small offices or areas should evacuate together at the same time

• A quick head count shall be made and all persons should leave together helping those who may need help or may be disabled.
• Always be sure to check restrooms for someone who may not be aware of the hazard, or that an evacuation is in progress. This should be done by either the department supervisor or assistant.
• All evacuated persons gather at the evacuation assembly points outside the building. A head count will be taken and no one should leave this area until they have been accounted for and released by their supervisor.
• No staff or guests should attempt to re-enter the venue without permission.

The Manager-on-Duty will notify employees when it is permissible to re-enter the venue.

EVACUATION ROUTES

For all events, occupants should be directed to the nearest and safest exit.

Evacuation in an orderly manner is necessary to assure that people vacate a dangerous area as quickly
as possible.

• Wyly Theatre employees must care for themselves and must see that patrons are guided from the venue to safety.
• Wyly Theatre employees should be the last to evacuate
  the venue.
• It is the responsibility of all Wyly Theatre employees to understand and make themselves familiar
  with this Emergency Preparedness Manual.
• To assist each employee with evacuation routes, maps are included in the document,
  immediately following the evacuation procedures.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION

General

Any time that the alarm system is activated, everyone in the venue MUST evacuate immediately.

When an ALARM sounds:

• Go to the exit nearest your post and exit the venue.
• Move to the nearest evacuation gathering point.
• If the nearest exit to your post is blocked by fire or smoke, go in another direction to the nearest exit and move to the nearest evacuation gathering point.

Evacuation assembly points are as follows:

• Flora Street at the top of the Esplanade
• The corner of Ross Avenue and Leonard Street by the AT&T PAC marquee
• Family Unification Point directly in front of the Information Center

These areas will be generally safe from flying debris and out of the way of first responders.

EMPLOYEE EVACUATION

There are work areas in the Wyly Theatre such as administrative offices and the Box Office where employees
work on a regular basis and are visited by vendors and/or contractors.

All employees must be familiar with the evacuation
routes for their respective areas. In addition to knowing the evacuation routes, department heads should ensure the following:

• An immediate head count should be taken of everyone who has evacuated the venue and is present outside.
• Those who may be absent from the head count must be
  immediately brought to the attention of the emergency
  response personnel at the scene.

Small offices or areas should evacuate together, at the same time.

• A quick head count shall be made and all persons should leave together, helping those who may need help or may be disabled.
• Always be sure to check restrooms for someone who may not be aware of the hazard, or that an evacuation is in progress.
• This should be done by either the department supervisor or assistant.
• All evacuated persons gather at the evacuation assembly points outside the building.
• A head count will be taken and no one should leave this area until they have been accounted for and released by their supervisor.
• No staff or guests should attempt to re-enter the venue without permission.

The Manager-on-Duty
will notify employees when it is permissible to re-enter the venue.

EVACUATION ROUTES

For all events occupants should be directed to the nearest &safest exit.

ALL OTHER SITUATIONS

Seated Areas

• Proceed out of the seating areas and out of the main gates located on the south end of the venue and assemble by the Donor Reflecting Pool at the corner of Flora and Jack Evans.

GA Areas

• Exit through the west end of the venue through alley and down the sidewalk to the marquee at the corner of the Woodall Rodgers service road and Jack Evans.

Backstage Areas

• Proceed from the backstage area through the loading dock to the marquee at the corner of the Woodall Rodgers service road and Jack Evans.