UTHealth Houston Emergency Communications

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Emergency Information

In the event of pending severe weather, check here for information on how to know if the campus is open or on controlled access.

UTHealth Houston employees and students may determine the institution’s operational status by the following means:

  • Check your UTHealth Houston email. Look for an email from “UTHealth Houston Communications,” or “UT Police at Houston.”
  • Go to the UTHealth Houston intranet. In the event of a weather emergency, the university will post information prominently on the page. Often, a banner is posted as well—in green, yellow, or red, depending on the severity of the event.
  • The UTHealth Houston ALERT text message system is used for both weather and security-related emergencies. Employees and students are automatically enrolled in the system as long as they have provided an accurate cell phone number in Self-Service (unless they’ve opted out), but visitors and guests are not. For information on how to enroll, visit the UTHealth Houston ALERT intranet page.
  • This webpage, UTHealthHoustonEmergency.org, will also be updated. This page is housed separately from the university’s email and intranet systems (with servers in a separate state). It’s the best place to check if the intranet isn’t loading, or if the weather is severe enough to cause severe flooding in the Texas Medical Center.
  • UT Physicians: The status of operations at each UT Physicians clinic location is determined by UT Physicians administration. All UT Physicians staff and doctors are expected to report for duty at their scheduled time unless otherwise communicated. If there is a clinic closure, practice managers will notify staff using call trees that are maintained by each individual clinic. Status updates will also be available on UTPConnect.comUTPhysicians.com, and UT Physicians’ social media channels.
  • UT Dentists: The status of operations UT Dentists is determined by UT Dentists administration. All UT Dentists employees are expected to report for duty at their scheduled time unless otherwise communicated. If there is a clinic closure, practice managers will notify staff using call trees devised and maintained by each individual clinic. For clinical partnerships where UT Dentists provides care, operational status is determined at the individual location.
  • UTHealth Houston Behavioral Sciences Campus employees (UTHealth Houston Harris County Psychiatric Center and John S. Dunn Behavioral Sciences Center at UTHealth Houston) should call 713-741-5001.
  • UTHealth Houston social media: Campus status information will be posted to the university’s Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

If these communication resources do not provide adequate information, employees should call their supervisors. All employees and supervisors should keep mobile phone numbers on hand so that they can reach each other in case of emergency. Supervisors should exercise their best judgment in allowing UTHealth Houston employees to use appropriate leave time in the event of family emergencies or concerns about getting to work safely. Employees should discuss their situation with their supervisor.

Employees who are defined by their department as “essential” as well as employees and students with clinical obligations at hospitals and other locations should check with their supervisors.

Essential employees have been designated by their department heads as essential to the continued performance of their department and/or the university. They include faculty and staff who are required to sustain clinical services and/or who are responsible for the protection of university assets. Essential employees will be required to report to their designated work site during their appointed work schedule even when the institution has been officially declared closed due to adverse conditions. If an essential employee cannot report to work, they must contact their direct supervisor to advise of the situation as soon as possible.

For more information see HOOP Policy 85: Controlled Access Status for Emergency, Disaster or Severe Weather in the Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOOP) or the Emergency Management Plan, the UT Physicians Emergency Plan, or the UTHealth Houston Behavioral Sciences Campus Emergency Plan.

If the university is forced to implement controlled access status, formal classes (whether virtual or in person) will be canceled. 

If classes are canceled in Houston, they are also canceled at the regional locations. However, class closures that are specific to a regional location do not impact the operational status of the Houston campus.

UTHealth Houston will communicate through email and the UTHealth Houston ALERT text message system about severe weather. If the emergency or weather is severe enough for the university to transition to controlled access or delayed opening, that information will first be shared through email. It will then be posted on the UTHealth Houston intranet inside.uth.edu and to this website.

During any emergency situation, you can expect to receive communications through this website for university-wide communications. Depending on the circumstances, the university’s schools may also communicate additional, specific information to employees and students.

  • At the School of Dentistry, in case of unexpected circumstances requiring cancellation of appointments, patients who have scheduled appointments through axiUm will be notified by the automated system. Students and clinics are encouraged to touch base personally with their patients.
  • At McGovern Medical School, third- and fourth-year students should check their emails regarding clinical rotation closures. Employees with offices in McGovern Medical School, UTHealth Houston Professional Building, or Jesse Jones Library Building may call 713-500-7999.
  • At Cizik School of Nursing, students in the nurse anesthesia program are expected to meet their clinical obligations if the hospital is open.
  • At the School of Public Health, those with clinical duties are still required to fulfill those duties.
  • At MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, regarding lectures, didactic classes and other official on-campus school functions, the school will close when its first parent institution (UTHealth Houston or MD Anderson) closes, and reopen when the last one reopens. Notices about the status of classes will be posted on the school’s website. Students should follow their faculty advisor’s institutional policies to determine when to return/report to their laboratories. Visit the Graduate School Emergency Weather Page for more information. 

For more information see HOOP 85: Controlled Access Status for Emergency, Disaster or Severe Weather in the Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOOP) or the Emergency Management Plan  , the UT Physicians Emergency Plan, or the UTHealth Houston Behavioral Sciences Campus Emergency Plan.

It’s important to remember if the status of the university changes, there are certain employees who are deemed essential to protect life, property, environment, and/or to restore normal operations during or after an emergency, as outlined in HOOP Policy 141: Emergency Management and Business Continuity Plans.

These employees will be required to report to work when the status of the university has changed to controlled access status due to weather conditions or other emergencies.

There are two categories of essential personnel:

Category 1 includes: Executive Control Team members and Advisory Call personnel as listed in the university Emergency Management Plan as well as personnel from: Environmental Health and Safety; Facilities, Planning, and Engineering; UT Police at Houston; Information Technology; Office of Public Affairs; and animal care personnel.

Category 2 includes: Departmental personnel who will be the last to leave their area during an evacuation, and the first to re-enter when the facility is cleared; employees required to sustain clinical operations; and other personnel as designated by the department head. This group is responsible for securing property prior to evacuation. That could include controlled substances, perishables, turning off equipment, and covering sensitive property.

The procedure for determining the access status of the university is outlined in HOOP Policy 85: Controlled Access Status for Emergency, Disaster or Severe Weather.

Call 911 for all emergencies.

Non-emergencies:

  • To report suspicious activity or to request a courtesy escort out of a building, call UT Police at 713-792-2890. If this number is down, call 713-563-1049.
  • To report a safety concern, contact the Office of Safety, Health, Environment, and Risk Management at 713-500-8100, osfp.safety@uth.tmc.edu, or through the after-hours hotline: 713-500-5832.
  • To report building maintenance needs and issues, contact the Office of Facilities, Planning, and Engineering  Fix It team at 713-500-FIXT (713-500-3498) or FIXIT@uth.tmc.edu.

Reporting crimes:

  • To report suspicious activity, call UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890.
  • All incidents, threats of violence, suspicious behavior, or violent acts must be reported to the STOP Line at 713-792-7867 (713-792-STOP).
  • Instances of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating, or domestic violence must be reported to the Title IX office at 
  • 713-500-CALL or CALL@uth.tmc.edu. UT Police can also assist. Additional information regarding reporting and supportive resources can be found at https://www.uth.edu/titleix/

Many behaviors may cause concern for the safety and well-being of an employee, patient or visitor, or for the institution as a whole. If you ever see behaviors of concern or feel threatened with violence from an employee, patient, or visitor, call 2-STOP (713-792-7867). Behaviors of concern may signal the need for intervention to prevent a violent incident.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ These calls can be kept confidential so there is no fear of retribution.​​​​​​​

Have you observed these warning signs?

  • Unusual or sudden changes in behaviors or patterns
  • Extreme reactions to a loss or a traumatic event 
  • Preoccupation with weapons, violent events, or people who have engaged in violent acts
  • Uncharacteristically poor work performance 
  • References to harming others or planning a violent or destructive event
  • Evidence of depression, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts or plans 
  • Inappropriate responses such as prolonged irritability, angry outbursts or intense reactions
  • Strained interpersonal relations, new or worsening social isolation, or low self-esteem 
  • Significant change in life circumstances such as loss of a job or relationship
  • Inappropriate search for or acquisition of proprietary or classified information on people unrelated to the employee’s work duties

These are helpful resources to review before and during any weather-related events.

Weather monitoring websites:

Flood warning websites:

Preparation guides:

Public transportation in the Texas Medical Center

Guidance for hurricane watches or warnings:

  • Monitor local TV or radio stations for instructions as well as communications from UTHealth Houston about preparedness and response activities on campus.
  • Check supplies, especially water (at least one gallon per person/pet per day for up to seven days).
  • Fuel vehicles and generators.
  • Cover windows with plywood.
  • Bring in all outdoor furniture, toys, and tools.
  • Move out of evacuation zones early if told to do so by officials.
  • Clean and fill bathtubs and all available containers with extra water.

Ensure preparations are also in place for work or school, as appropriate, to minimize the opportunity for property loss.

Guidance for during a hurricane:

  • Remain in an interior hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level of the house, and away from windows as long as it remains safe to do so.
  • Seek shelter under something sturdy, such as a well-constructed dining room table, which could protect from debris.
  • Stay informed of changing conditions from local officials.
  • Have a secondary plan in the event your home floods. It is not recommended to evacuate to the attic, unless you can identify another way out.

Ride-out teams will often be stationed across the UTHealth Houston campus during major weather events. Stay tuned to UTHealth Houston intranet and other emergency communication channels for updated information about any potential impacts to campus.

If classes are canceled in Houston, they are also canceled at the regional locations. However, class closures that are specific to a regional location do not impact the operational status of the Houston campus.

In the event of an emergency, dial 911.

CampusBuildingsAddressPolice Contact
Austin

UTA Building

AFIAA WTC, LLC and Moody Bank

GSP

1616 Guadalupe, Suite 6.300,
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-482-6160

400W 15th Street, Suite 1050
Austin, Texas 78701
Phone: 512-391-2500

1705 Guadalupe, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-482-6160

UT Austin Police
Phone: 512-471-4441 (non-emergency)
BrownsvilleRAHC

SPH Bldg. N
80 Fort Brown,
Brownsville, TX 78520
Phone: 956-755-0600

UT Rio Grande Valley Police
Phone: 956-882-8232
DallasTrinity Towers2777 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 8400,
Dallas, TX 75207
Phone: 972-546-2920
Security Desk: onsite 24/7 
Phone: 927-372-0339 
El PasoMedical Center of the Americas Foundation (MCA)5130 Gateway Boulevard East MCA 110,
El Paso, TX 79905
Phone: 915-975-8520
City of El Paso Police Department:
915-212-4000
Emergencies: 911
San AntonioHartman One Technology Center7411 John Smith Drive, Suite 1100,
San Antonio, TX 78229
Phone: 210-276-9000
UT Health San Antonio Police
Phone: 210-567-2800 (non-emergency),
210-567-8911 (emergency)

Preparedness Guides

Below is important reference information found within the UTHealth Houston Emergency Management Plan. 

Reminder: Please be sure your contact and designated emergency contact information is current in Self Service. Those numbers are important to have on file ahead of an emergency.

If an armed subject is in the area, UT Police at Houston will send safety information via the UTHealth Houston ALERT text message system to the university community. Updates also may be provided on the UTHealth Houston intranet or through email.

If you see or hear gunfire, don’t hesitate to protect yourself. A survival mentality is about awareness, preparation and rehearsal:

  • Awareness: involves gaining a basic understanding of armed intruder situations.
  • ​​​​​​​Preparation: means asking yourself “what if” questions that’ll help you develop effective responses.
  • Rehearsal: is practicing your plan.

UT Police offers classes to give critical guidance on how to recognize and survive an active shooter situation. 

When law enforcement arrives

  • Remain calm and follow instructions.
  • Drop items in your hands (e.g., bags, jackets).
  • Raise hands and spread fingers.
  • Keep hands visible at all times.
  • Avoid quick movements toward officers, such as holding onto them for safety.
  • Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling.
  • Do not ask questions when evacuating.

In the event of a bomb threat, UT Police at Houston will send safety information via the UTHealth Houston ALERT text message system to the university community. As needed, updates will be provided via text message and email. 

From the UT Police bomb threat guide:

If a bomb threat is received by phone:

  • Be calm, courteous, and do not interrupt the caller.
  • Keep the caller on the phone as long as possible and do not hang up.
  • Signal to someone near you to alert a supervisor.
  • Write down everything the caller tells you.
  • Ask the caller as many questions as possible. Note tone of voice, background noise, etc.
  • When the call is over, immediately call 911 or notify UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890.

Consider asking the caller:

  • When is the bomb going to explode?
  • Where is the bomb right now?
  • What kind of bomb is it?
  • What does it look like?
  • Why did you place the bomb?
  • Where are you calling from?

If a bomb threat is received by email:

  • Immediately call 911 or notify UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890.
  • Print a copy or take a screenshot of the email for UT Police at Houston.
  • Do not delete the message.

 If a bomb is seen or received on campus:

  • If you find a device or suspicious package, DO NOT move or touch it. Immediately retreat to a safe location.
  • Immediately call 911 or notify UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890.

 If an evacuation is activated by emergency response personnel:

  • Remove everyone from immediate danger, as instructed by police.
  • Account for people under your direct supervision who were evacuated, and verify everyone has left the affected area(s).
  • When evacuating patients, ensure the following are accounted for:
    • Tracking records
    • Personal items
    • Identification bracelets
    • Medical records
    • Family and visitors
  • A guide on observations to note can be found online.

The Emergency Response Plan on the Safety, Health, Environment, and Risk Management website outlines procedures in greater detail.

  • If roadways are at risk of icing, avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
  • If you must go out, drive slowly, give plenty of distance between vehicles on the road, and avoid braking or accelerating suddenly.
  • If you have a collision or breakdown, remain in your vehicle. Do not stand outside during slippery conditions.
  • Dress warmly, in layers.
  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be susceptible to cold weather and/or may not have access to heat.
  • Pets should be brought indoors or provided with a warm place to sleep.
  • Pipes that run outside or under a house should be wrapped in pipe insulation.
  • Clean and fill bathtubs and all available containers with extra water.

Ensure preparations are also in place for work or school, as appropriate, to minimize the opportunity for property loss.

If you see smoke or flames, or smell something burning, immediately report the situation by calling 911 or UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890. Include the following:

  • Location of the fire
  • Type of fire, if known
  • Your name and phone number

Activate the fire alarm system by pulling the nearest fire alarm pull station, which are in stairwells and exits. If it is safe to do so, notify all personnel in the area.

How to use a fire extinguisher (PASS):

  • Pull the pin
  • Aim at the base of fire
  • Squeeze the lever
  • Sweep side to side

Confine the fire by closing doors, but do not lock the doors. If possible, shut off all nonessential oxygen, gas, and electrical appliances in the area and secure any hazardous materials.

Evacuate the building using the nearest stairway or ground exit, if you think it is necessary. Do not use elevators.

In the event of a fire, remember to “RACE:”

  • Rescue
  • Alarm
  • Confine
  • Extinguish

The Emergency Response Plan on the Safety, Health, Environment, and Risk Management website outlines procedures in greater detail.

  • Avoid flooded areas including streets.
  • Visit the Rice University and Texas Medical Center Flood Alert System webpage to check TMC flooding conditions.
  • Delay travel until floodwaters recede. This may take several hours.
  • Do not attempt to cross any areas of high water.
  • In a life-threatening flood situation, immediately get out of the vehicle and seek higher ground.
  • Carry a safety hammer, which has a steel tip and a seatbelt cutter to help you more easily get out of the vehicle and break windows if necessary.

If you witness or discover a hazardous material release/spill:

  • Move to safety.
  • Notify others in the area to move to safety.
  • Do not attempt to control or clean up the spill.
  • From a safe distance, determine if anyone is injured or exposed.

If there are injuries, call 911 or UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890. An injured employee may decide to seek treatment at the nearest emergency room, if necessary. If an injured employee chooses to seek medical attention through UT Health Services, they can call 713-500-3267 to set an appointment. Students can contact Student Health and Counseling Services at 713-500-5171.

Call Environmental Health and Safety at 713-500-8100 or the department’s safety hotline at 713-500-5832.

Anyone who has been exposed should remove contaminated clothing and stand under running water for at least 15 minutes or until medical personnel arrive.

The Emergency Response Plan on the Safety, Health, Environment, and Risk Management website outlines procedures in greater detail.

During a hurricane watch or warning:

  • Monitor local TV or radio stations for instructions as well as communications from UTHealth Houston about preparedness and response activities on campus.
  • Check supplies, especially water (at least one gallon per person/pet per day for up to seven days).
  • Fuel vehicles and generators.
  • Cover windows with plywood.
  • Bring in all outdoor furniture, toys, and tools.
  • Move out of evacuation zones early if told to do so by officials.
  • Clean and fill bathtubs and all available containers with extra water.

Ensure preparations are also in place for work or school, as appropriate, to minimize the opportunity for property loss.

During a hurricane:

  • Remain in an interior hallway, bathroom, or closet on the lowest level of the house, and away from windows as long as it remains safe to do so.
  • Seek shelter under something sturdy, such as a well-constructed dining room table, which could protect from debris.
  • Stay informed of changing conditions from local officials.
  • Have a secondary plan in the event your home floods. It is not recommended to evacuate to the attic, unless you can identify another way out.

Ride-out teams will often be stationed across the UTHealth Houston campus during major hurricane events.

In the event of a medical emergency, call 911. 

Minor Student injuries: 713-500-5171
Student needlesticks after hours: 800-770-9206 (available 24 hours a day)

Minor Employee injuries: UT Health Services at 713-500-3267
Employee needlesticks after hours: 800-770-9206 (available 24 hours a day)

For cardiac events, an automated external defibrillator (AED) may be used. Look for an AED cabinet near elevator lobbies in buildings on campus. Bleeding control kits can also be found inside the AED cabinets to stop severe bleeding.

To report an AED maintenance issue, call Environmental Health and Safety at 713-500-8100 or email osfp.safety@uth.tmc.edu.

  • Tornadoes often approach quickly with little notice.
  • Move away from windows.
  • Go to an internal area of the building such as a bathroom, closet, internal office, or stairwell. Remain in that area until the threatening conditions pass.