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Safety Procedures

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DMACC
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515-964-6500

Public Safety Procedures

Emergency Contact Numbers

General Emergency

  • All Locations: Dial 911 for immediate police, fire, or medical emergencies.

  • Address: 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Ankeny, IA 50023
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-964-6200 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (Ankeny Police Department): 515-289-5240 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Polk County Sheriff): 515-286-3800 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Polk County Emergency Management): 515-286-2107
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (MidAmerican Energy): 800-595-5325 (emergencies)
    • Water (Des Moines Water Works): 515-283-8700 (emergencies)

  • Address: 1125 Hancock Drive, Boone, IA 50036
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-432-7203 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (Boone Police Department): 515-432-3456 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Boone County Sheriff): 515-433-0527 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Boone County Emergency Management): 515-433-9506
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (Alliant Energy): 800-255-4268 (outages)
    • Gas (Alliant Energy): 800-786-1000 (emergencies)
    • Water (Boone Water Department): 515-432-4211 (emergencies)

  • Address: 906 North Grant Road, Carroll, IA 51401
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 712-792-1755 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (Carroll Police Department): 712-792-3531 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Carroll County Sheriff): 712-792-4393 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Carroll County Emergency Management): 712-792-0042
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (Mid-American Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (Alliant Energy): 800-786-1000 (emergencies)
    • Water (Carroll Municipal Utilities): 712-792-1000 (emergencies)

  • Address: 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-244-4226 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (Des Moines Police Department): 515-283-4811 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Polk County Sheriff): 515-286-3800 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Polk County Emergency Management): 515-286-2107
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (MidAmerican Energy): 800-595-5325 (emergencies)
    • Water (Des Moines Water Works): 515-283-8700 (emergencies)

  • Address: 600 N. 2nd Avenue West, Newton, IA 50208
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 641-791-3622 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (Newton Police Department): 641-792-1547 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Jasper County Sheriff): 641-792-5912 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Jasper County Emergency Management): 641-792-7555
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (Alliant Energy): 800-255-4268 (outages)
    • Gas (Alliant Energy): 800-786-1000 (emergencies)
    • Water (Newton WaterWorks): 641-792-2000 (emergencies)

  • Address: 5959 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50266
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-633-2407 or 1-800-362-2127
  • Local Police (West Des Moines Police Department): 515-222-3320 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Polk County Sheriff): 515-286-3800 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Polk County Emergency Management): 515-286-2107
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (MidAmerican Energy): 800-595-5325 (emergencies)
    • Water (West Des Moines Water Works): 515-222-3460 (emergencies)

  • Address: 1420 S. Bell Avenue, Ames, IA 50010
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-663-6700
  • Local Police (Ames Police Department): 515-239-5133 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Story County Sheriff): 515-382-6566 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Story County Emergency Management): 515-382-7300
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (Ames Electric Services): 515-239-5120 (outages)
    • Gas (Alliant Energy): 800-786-1000 (emergencies)
    • Water (Ames Water Department): 515-239-5150 (emergencies)

  • Address: 1011 2nd Avenue, Perry, IA 50220
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-428-8100
  • Local Police (Perry Police Department): 515-465-4636 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Dallas County Sheriff): 515-993-4771 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Dallas County Emergency Management): 515-993-5808
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (Alliant Energy): 800-255-4268 (outages)
    • Gas (Alliant Energy): 800-786-1000 (emergencies)
    • Water (Perry Water Department): 515-465-2561 (emergencies)

  • Address: 1111 E. Army Post Road, Des Moines, IA 50315
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-287-8700
  • Local Police (Des Moines Police Department): 515-283-4811 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Polk County Sheriff): 515-286-3800 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Polk County Emergency Management): 515-286-2107
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (MidAmerican Energy): 800-595-5325 (emergencies)
    • Water (Des Moines Water Works): 515-283-8700 (emergencies)

  • Address: 123 Main Street, Templeton, IA 51463
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 712-792-1755
  • Local Police (Carroll Police Department, serving Templeton): 712-792-3531 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Carroll County Sheriff): 712-792-4393 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Carroll County Emergency Management): 712-792-0042
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (Black Hills Energy): 888-890-5554 (emergencies)
    • Water (Templeton Municipal Utilities): 712-669-3502 (emergencies)

  • Address: 2081 NE 54th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
  • DMACC Public Safety Dispatch: 515-964-6500
  • DMACC Main Line: 515-965-7450
  • Local Police (Des Moines Police Department): 515-283-4811 (non-emergency)
  • Sheriff (Polk County Sheriff): 515-286-3800 (non-emergency)
  • Emergency Management (Polk County Emergency Management): 515-286-2107
  • Utilities:
    • Electric (MidAmerican Energy): 888-427-5632 (outages)
    • Gas (MidAmerican Energy): 800-595-5325 (emergencies)
    • Water (Des Moines Water Works): 515-283-8700 (emergencies)

Best Practices for Emergency Scenarios

The following best practices are provided for students, staff, and administration at all DMACC locations (Ankeny, Urban, Southridge, Newton, Boone, Carroll, Perry, Templeton, Ames, Transportation Institute, and West Campus) to prepare for and respond to fire, tornado/severe weather, and active shooter scenarios. These guidelines are based on standard emergency preparedness protocols and the Run, Hide, Fight model for active shooters, as endorsed by the FBI and CISA. All DMACC staff, students, and administration are "highly encouraged" to have the InformaCast application installed on their phones, as all emergency messaging will be provided through this application. Users must check monthly to ensure the application is functioning and they are logged in.

Best Practices and Options for Consideration:

  • Preparation:
    • Install the InformaCast application on your phone and verify it is working and you are logged in each month. All emergency messaging, including fire alerts, will be sent via InformaCast.
    • Familiarize yourself with the building layout, including at least two exit routes from your classroom, office, or workspace. Review campus maps, in your classroom and available at dmacc.edu) for all campuses.
    • Identify fire alarms, extinguishers, and designated assembly points outside the building. For example, at Ankeny, check Building 6 signage for exit paths.
    • Participate in fire drills conducted by DMACC to practice evacuation procedures.
    • Report potential fire hazards (e.g., blocked exits, faulty wiring) to campus facilities or DMACC Public Safety Dispatch.
  • Response:
    • Evacuate Immediately: When a fire alarm sounds, smoke/fire is detected, or an InformaCast alert is received, leave the building via the nearest safe exit and move at least 300 feet from building. Do not use elevators.
    • Stay Low: If smoke is present, crawl to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.
    • Check Doors: Before opening a door, touch it with the back of your hand. If hot, use an alternate route.
    • Close Doors: Close doors behind you to slow the spread of fire, but do not lock them.
    • Assemble Outside: Proceed to the designated assembly point (check campus-specific signage) and stay clear of the building. For Boone Campus with on-campus housing, ensure residents evacuate to a safe distance.
    • Report: Call 911 and DMACC Public Safety Dispatch (515-964-6500) once safe to report the fire and your location.
    • Do Not Re-Enter: Remain outside until authorities, DMACC Public Safety, or an InformaCast alert declares the building safe.
  • Campus-Specific Notes:
    • Urban Campus: Located in downtown Des Moines, expect heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic during evacuation. Follow designated routes to avoid congestion.
    • Smaller Locations (Perry, Templeton, Ames): These centers may have fewer exits; ensure familiarity with all available routes.
    • Transportation Institute: Due to its focus on automotive training, be aware of potential flammable materials and follow specific shop safety protocols.

Best Practices and Options for Consideration:

  • Preparation:
    • Install the InformaCast application on your phone and verify it is working and you are logged in each month. All emergency messaging, including tornado and severe weather alerts, will be sent via InformaCast.
    • Sign up for local weather alerts via smartphone apps or county emergency management systems (e.g., Polk County Emergency Management: 515-286-2107) as a backup to InformaCast.
    • Know the location of designated tornado shelters in each building. Shelters are typically in interior rooms, basements, or ground-level areas without windows. Check DMACC building signage or ask campus staff.
    • For Boone Campus residents, identify shelter areas in on-campus housing.
    • Understand severe weather terms: a Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable; a Tornado Warning means a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar—take immediate action.
  • Response:
    • Seek Shelter: When an InformaCast tornado warning is received, a local warning is issued, or severe weather (e.g., high winds, hail) is imminent, move to the designated shelter area. For example, at Ankeny, shelters may be in Building 6’s interior rooms; confirm via campus signage or InformaCast.
    • Protect Yourself: Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls. Use sturdy furniture (e.g., desks) for cover, and protect your head with your arms or a helmet if available.
    • Stay Informed: Monitor InformaCast for updates. Use a battery-powered radio or smartphone for weather updates if InformaCast is unavailable.
    • Remain in Place: Stay in the shelter until an all-clear is issued via InformaCast, local authorities, or DMACC Public Safety.
    • Report Damage: After the event, report injuries or structural damage to 911 and DMACC Public Safety Dispatch (515-964-6500).
  • Campus-Specific Notes:
    • Newton Campus: Located in a rural area, ensure rapid response to InformaCast warnings due to potential for quick-changing weather conditions.
    • Southridge Campus: As a newer facility, check for updated shelter designations in main buildings via InformaCast or signage.
    • Carroll and Templeton: Smaller facilities may have limited shelter options; identify interior hallways or restrooms as alternatives if basements are unavailable.

Best Practices and Options for Consideration:

  • Preparation:
    • Install the InformaCast application on your phone and verify it is working and you are logged in each month. All emergency messaging, including active shooter alerts, will be sent via InformaCast.
    • Review the Run, Hide, Fight protocol via resources located on the Public Safety Website.
    • Assess your surroundings regularly in classrooms, offices, or common areas (e.g., Ankeny’s Student Activities Center or Urban’s food court) to identify exits, hiding spots, and potential weapons.
    • Attend DMACC safety training sessions if offered, or request active shooter preparedness resources from DMACC Public Safety Director.
  • Response:
    • Run:
      • If you receive an InformaCast alert or otherwise confirm an active shooter and can safely escape, evacuate immediately, even if others hesitate. Leave belongings behind.
      • Use the nearest exit or window if accessible. For example, at Ankeny, exit Building 6 via Lot K entrances if safe.
      • Run to a safe location away from the building, using cover (e.g., trees, cars) if possible.
      • Call 911 and DMACC Public Safety Dispatch (515-964-6500) when safe, providing details about the shooter’s location and description.
    • Hide:
      • If escape is not possible, find a secure hiding place, preferably in a lockable room or behind heavy furniture.
      • Silence phones (including InformaCast notifications), turn off lights, and barricade doors with desks, chairs, or other objects.
      • Stay quiet and out of sight, away from windows and doors. For Urban Campus, consider hiding in less-trafficked areas like administrative offices.
      • Remain hidden until an InformaCast all-clear, law enforcement, or DMACC Public Safety confirms safety.
    • Fight:
      • As a last resort, if your life is in immediate danger, act aggressively to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter.
      • Use improvised weapons (e.g., chairs, fire extinguishers, books) and work with others if possible.
      • Aim for vulnerable areas (e.g., eyes, throat) to maximize impact.
      • Once the threat is neutralized, call 911 and follow law enforcement instructions.
  • Campus-Specific Notes:
    • Ankeny Campus: With over 15,000 students, crowded areas like the food court or Trail Point Aquatics Center require quick exit identification via InformaCast or signage.
    • Boone Campus: On-campus housing increases the need for resident-specific plans; practice Run, Hide, Fight in dorms and monitor InformaCast.
    • Smaller Centers (Perry, Templeton, Ames): Limited space may restrict hiding options; prioritize escape or barricading in classrooms.
    • West Campus: Located in a commercial area, coordinate with nearby businesses for safe evacuation routes if directed by InformaCast.

Resources for Emergency Preparedness

The following links provide additional guidance on the FBI’s Run, Hide, Fight protocol for active shooter situations, how to navigate a fire in a building, and how to deal with a tornado. These resources are recommended for DMACC staff, students, and administration to enhance preparedness across all campuses.

  • FBI Run, Hide, Fight Protocol:
  • How to Navigate a Fire in a Building:
    • How to Navigate a Fire in a Building: Provides detailed guidance on planning and executing a safe evacuation during a building fire, including tips on staying low and checking doors.
  • How to Deal with a Tornado:
    • How to Navigate a Tornado in a Building: Comprehensive guide on preparing for and responding to tornadoes, including sheltering tips and understanding weather alerts.
    • NOAA Tornado Safety: Information from the National Weather Service on tornado preparedness, including how to identify safe shelter areas and interpret tornado warnings.

Weather-Related Closing Information

If there is inclement weather such as a blizzard or ice storm, an announcement will be posted on the DMACC.edu website. DMACC students, faculty and staff can also monitor media announcements for possible college closing information.

You may also be notified of college closing information through the DMACC Bear Alert system. Your DMACC email address and phone number has automatically been entered in the Bear Alert system.

Physio-Control/Stryker LIFEPAK CR2 | CPR/AED Training



Emergency Notification Policy

DMACC Consumer Information - Emergency Notification Policy Statement

DMACC has a multi-layered emergency notification system in place called DMACC Bear Alert for immediately notifying the campus community upon the confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate or pending threat to the health or safety of students or employees occurring on the campus. Some or all these layers of communication may be activated in the event of an immediate threat to the DMACC Campus Community, depending on the location and type of emergency. Layers include emails, text messages, voice mails and an indoor voice notification system. DMACC will post updates during a critical incident on the DMACC website. Members of the larger community (parents, students and employee family members etc.) who are interested in receiving information about emergencies on campus can also sign up for DMACC Bear Alerts by downloading the InformaCast app.

The DMACC Campus Community is notified on an annual basis that they are expected to notify Securitas, Inc. Campus Security (515-964-6500) of any significant emergency or dangerous situation that may involve an immediate or on-going threat to the health and safety of students and/or employees. The DMACC Incident Response Team is responsible of responding to, and summoning the necessary resources, to mitigate, investigate, and document any significant emergency or dangerous situation. If there is a threat to the campus community, the College will notify the campus community or the appropriate segments of the community affected by the situation.

If the Incident Response Team confirms that there is an emergency or dangerous situation, they will collaborate to determine the content of the message and will communicate the message to the campus community.

Current Students