Emergency Response Guide

Know what to do before an emergency happens. Find the steps for the most common emergencies on this page.

In an Emergency

Call 911

Give your building, floor and room first.
Stay on the line.

Non-emergency

Call NIU Police

815-753-1212

Mental health crisis: call or text 988.

What to Do in an Emergency

Fire or Fire Alarm

Evacuate

  • Leave by the nearest exit. Do not use elevators.
  • Help anyone who needs assistance. If someone cannot use the stairs, tell responders where they are.
  • Move at least 100 feet from the building and stay with your class or group. Do not reenter until the all clear.

More about fires

Active Threat

Run, Hide, Fight

  • Run if you safely can. Call 911 when you are safe.
  • Hide if you cannot. Lock or barricade the door, turn off the lights and silence phones.
  • Fight only as a last resort.

More about active threats

Tornado Warning

Seek Shelter

  • Go to the lowest floor, to an interior room or hallway away from windows.
  • Crouch low, cover your head and stay until the all clear.

More about severe weather

Shelter-in-Place Order

Stay Inside

  • Lock the door, stay away from doors and windows, and keep quiet.
  • Do not leave until emergency personnel say it is safe.

More about sheltering in place

Medical Emergency

Call 911

  • Give first aid within your training. If the person is unresponsive, start CPR. Use hands-only CPR if you are not trained.
  • Send someone to meet responders and guide them in.

More about medical emergencies

Suspicious Package or Spill

Stay Clear

  • Do not touch it. Move everyone away.
  • Call 911 from a safe distance.

More about suspicious packages and hazardous materials

Print and Download

Full Emergency Response Guide

The complete 2026-27 guide covers every emergency situation, building and department planning, and campus contacts. Supervisors should review it with their teams.

Download Full Guide (DOCX)

Classroom Quick Reference

Post this one-page guide in classrooms, labs and offices. Write in the building and room number before you post it.

Download Color Printable (PDF) Download Black and White Printable (PDF)

Be Prepared

Contact Us

In case of emergency: Call 911

Non-emergency Phone Number: 815-753-1212

niupd@niu.edu

Emergency Contact List