Emergency Closing Policy Q & A

Snow happens. So does the occasional tropical storm, broken water main and other crises that disrupt normal campus operations. So take a moment to reacquaint yourself with TU’s emergency closing policy.You’ll be glad you knew what to expect when the unexpected arises.

Who decides to close the campus or to cancel or delay or classes?

If an emergency occurs overnight, TU’s vice president and CFO makes a decision by 6 a.m. University Relations then notifies the media, records announcements on TU’s 410-704-2000 and 704-830-NEWS lines, and posts the news on the TU homepage. The TU Police Department will send a campuswide e-mail announcement and text message alerts to those who have signed up to receive them.

Which radio and TV stations will air emergency closing-related news?

In the Baltimore area: WBAL Radio 11 (1090 AM), WLIF (101.9 FM), WWMX (106.5 FM), WJFK 1300, WHFS 105.7, WQRS 102.7, WYPR (88.1 FM), WTMD (89.7 FM), WBAL-TV (11), WJZ-TV (13) and WMAR-TV (2).

In the Washington, D.C., area: WTOP (820 AM/103.5 FM), WRC-TV (4), WUSA-TV (9), WJLA-TV (7) and Newschannel 8.

Is there a telephone number I can call for the latest information?

Call 410-704-2000 or 410-704-NEWS for recorded updates. Do not call the University Police.

What about text message alerts?
You are encouraged to register to receive text messages. This is the safest way to ensure that you receive critical TU notifications on safety issues, school closings and weather alerts. For more information, go to www.towson.edu/textalerts.

Does TU ever issue announcements that the campus is open?

No. Announcements are issued only when normal operations must be disrupted or suspended. If you don’t hear an announcement, it’s safe to assume the campus is open.   

What happens if the emergency occurs during the day?

The same notification process is executed as with overnight emergencies.

What is the difference between liberal leave and administrative leave?

Liberal Leave: authorization for staff to use earned leave for lateness or absence because of an emergency. Administrative Leave: granted to staff only when TU is closed. Liberal Leave and Administrative Leave are not applicable to students.

Should some employees report to work when TU is closed?

Emergency essential personnel should report to work. Talk to your supervisor to see if this policy affects you.

What if I’m not an essential employee, but come to work anyway?

TU cannot be held liable for any injuries you sustain if you come to work or remain at work after the campus has been closed.

Will scheduled events take place if TU is closed?

NCAA athletic events may proceed as scheduled, provided the university can ensure a safe environment for players and spectators. (Announcements regarding NCAA athletic events are distributed through the same channels as other TU closing advisories.)  All other events, regardless of sponsor, are canceled.     

Will TU issue announcements about individual department or program activities?

No. Departments should set up their own systems of communication, either through recorded announcements or telephone calls.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to print and review the full text of TU’s Emergency Closing Policy.