Stillwater Domestic Violence Services Crisis Plan

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & CRISIS RESPONSE GUIDE

WING S OF HOPE

S A F E T Y. H O P E . E M P O W E R M E N T. WHEN HOME ISN’ T SAFE ANYMORE...

Crisis Communication Plan for Stillwater Domestic Violences Services, Inc. Parent’s Assistance Center 115 E. 4th Ave. Stillwater, OK 74074 (405) 377-2344

INDEX

Cover Page -- 1 Index -- 2 Introduction -- 3 Fire -- 4 Tornado -- 8 Accidental Emergency Call -- 10 Gas Leak/Power Outage -- 11 Health -- 14 Conflicting Parties at Same Location -- 18 Code Gray/Shooter -- 20 Compromised Safe House Location -- 23 Missing Person -- 27 Bomb Threat -- 29 Explosion -- 32 Maps -- 36 Crisis Team -- 38 Media Contacts -- 39 Employee Contacts -- 40 Important Contacts -- 42 Appendix -- 45

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INTRODUCTION

The SDVS offers many services to the families of Stillwater. Victims have the opportunity to have conversations with professionals offering safety and support; counselors listening and educating; advocates truly hearing their story and giving them a voice; and mentors guiding them back to independence. The SDVS also provides a safe shelter, individual and group counseling, a 24-hour help line, a nursery, parent education, intervention services and more.

INTRODUCTION

Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization committed to stopping domestic violence against women and children in the Stillwater area. Its goal is to empower the affected families and bring their abusers to justice. The United Way Agency provides services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The SDVS and its internal organization, the Parent Assistance Center, exist to create change in the community, solving one of America’s biggest problems by bringing such social injustices to light. Preventing and having a notolerance attitude toward abuse is a passion for the employees and volunteers of the SDVS. They are passionate about what they do and strive to bring hope into the lives of these women and children.

Stillwater is only one home to domestic violence services. There are hundreds of DVS Centers not only in the U.S., but also worldwide. The growing epidemic of abuse is growing; but thankfully, so is the voice of the victim with the help of the DVS. The SDVS is indeed a shelter—a place for recovery and growth. But to the abused women and children of Stillwater, it is something more. The SDVS is their home. It is the place where positive relationships begin and the future is looks nothing but bright. Abuse victims come to the SDVS to look for hope—something that is fragile and can be taken again and quickly if their recovery process is not handled with appropriate caution.

Because of the sensitive nature of the SDVS’ services, it is important to have a Crisis Communications Plan. This plan can prepare the staff and employees for any unforeseen crises, furthering their goal of protecting the victims who come to the SDVS. The plan ensures the safety and well-being of the victims, volunteers and employees of the Stillwater Domestic Violence Services.

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FIRE Background Fires can range from a minimal to an immanent threat to the DVS Center or Safe House. If a fire occurs, follow the following steps.

Evacuate the center through the exits on the maps and move all DVS persons on the premise to the field north of the center, located between South Lowry and South Lewis streets.

If the fire is at the Safe House, evacuate the location through the exits on the map and move everyone to the First United Methodist Church, located at 400 W. 7th Ave. Immediately call the proper authorities and warn those who might be en route to the premise. If injuries occur, call 911 immediately.

If the location of the DVS Safe House is compromised in the fire, immediately evacuate the premise and put it under surveillance by the Stillwater authorities. Move Safe House inhabitants to the Stillwater United Methodist Church, at 400 W. 7th Ave. for a short-term solution. Phone (405) 533-2456. See COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION for more information on the topic.

FIRE

When evacuating the building, first assist children and those with disabilities. Do not re-enter the building until the proper authorities have said it is safe to do so. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants, sidewalks and walkways clear for emergency services.

Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice. ______________________________________________________________________________ When there is any SDVS-fire emergency similar to those listed above, the following steps are to be taken.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any fire at the DVS Center or Safe House and keep them up-to-speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses. They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

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FIRE

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Emergency contacts and family members of the affected party • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS External Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Stillwater Church Homes (as listed in Relevant Third-Party Organizations) • Helping Hands • Large or Long-Standing Donors Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come lead in crisis control and the Crisis Plan execution.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She will be in charge of all DVS women, their families, DVS employees and volunteers involved.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Fire-Crisis Communication Spokespersons When an explosion or related crisis occurs, there is to be one spokesperson from the DVS to ensure straight-forward and consistent messaging to the appropriate parties.

FIRE

If Dr. Lindsey is not avaliable, call DVS Senior Counslor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096 to remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey is the slated spokesperson for all fire crises. He will be in control of the Crisis Plan and its execution, understanding the most about the situation, giving the best possible outlook to the media. Call Dr. Lindsey at (918) 845-1618.

In case of Dr. Lindsey’s absence or he is personally involved with the crisis, the secondary spokesperson is DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill. She will have a position of power in the situation and will have the most facts that can lead to a quick recovery for the Stillwater DVS. Call Brenda at (918) 660-9096.

Crisis Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for fires is located at First United Methodist Church, 400 W. 7th St. It will act as a safe haven, as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential.

If the Control Center is put in jeopardy or is unavailable, the secondary Control Center will be located at the Stillwater YMCA, 204 S. Duck St. In order to keep the Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations

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FIRE

are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. In fire or related emergencies where no large, obvious or life-endangering damage has occurred, no media should be contacted. However, if the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld. See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

However, if the situation involves persons of the DVS or could even potentially affect outside parties, contact the media below. The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. These steps will ensure the safety of all involved.

FIRE

Again, the persons involved and their affiliations with the DVS, or the DVS Center and/or Safe House location, is never to be released.

Stillwater Fire Department • (405) 742-8308 • 1510 S. Main St. Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000 Key Messages The four key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published. Emphasize the accidental nature of the situation in order to deflect rumors.

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FIRE Message 1 • A fire of an accidental nature has occurred. All proper measures have been taken to ensure the continued safety of all those involved.

Message 2 • There are, fortunately, no injuries to be reported. On behalf of those involved, we politely ask the public and media for privacy while we rebuild our center.

• Unfortunately, number of injuries has/have been caused by the fire. Those injured are being cared for and we ask for the prayers of the community.

Message 3 • We politely ask the public and media for privacy while we rebuild our center.

FIRE

Message 4 • If you would like to volunteer your time or resources in the rebuilding of the center, please visit www.sdvs.org for opportunities.

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TORNADO Tornado In the event of a severe weather warning or tornado, each SDVS facility has designated shelter areas. These are highlighted on the map in this guide.

Safe House: Laundry room and middle downstairs bathroom Center: Clients’ bathroom, file room and nursery closet

These areas are also identified on the emergency evacuation postings in each facility.

These supplies should be checked monthly to ensure they are present and in good operating condition.

TORNADO

All designated shelters must have: • Radio • Flashlight • First Aid Kit • Water

Upon notification of a storm, immediately take shelter in a designated area and remain there until notified on an all-clear or until the area becomes unsafe. Those at the safe house location should notify the director or senior counselor when they have moved to a designated area.

If the storm passes without damage to the safe house or center and without injury, no further action is necessary.

Should damage from a storm occur at either the safe house location or the center, begin crisis response.

Crisis Team and Spokespersons: • Executive Director Ralph Lindsey • (918) 845-1618 • Brenda Gill • (405) 880-0647 • Patti Graham • (405) 412-2455

• Check to make sure everyone is unharmed. If someone is injured, take the steps outlined in the HEALTH section of this guide.

• Determine whether the damage is extensive enough to warrant moving to the Crisis Control Center (First United Methodist Church, 400 W. 7th) and/or moving clients to the alternate safe house at Stillwater Medical Center.

• Prepare a press release and letter to Helping Hands members and donors. Outlines of both are on the following pages.

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TORNADO

Key Messages: In the event of minor damage to the office or shelter: • Despite minor damage to the SDVS [center or safe house], we are operating as normal.

Anyone requiring our help is encouraged to visit our office at 115 E. 4th Ave. in Stillwater.

You may also contact us by calling our office at (405) 377-2344 or our Crisis line at (405) 624-3020.

TORNADO

Key Publics and Contact Methods: • SDVS Employees and Volunteers • E-mail or Letter • SDVS Clients • Group meeting • Potential SDVS Clients • Media Release • Helping Hands members • Letter • Donors • Letter

In the event of major damage to the office: • During the recent severe weather storm (or tornado), SDVS center sustained heavy damage. No one was injured, but SDVS is unable to use the office for day-to-day operations.

In the meantime, we will operate out of First United Methodist Church. Anyone requiring out help is encourage to visit us at 400 W. 7th in Stillwater. You may also contact us by calling Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (405) 880-0674 or calling our Crisis line at (405) 624-3020.

In the event of major damage to the safe house: • Following damage to our safe house in the recent storm, we moved all of our live-in clients to an undisclosed secondary shelter. Anyone requiring our help is encouraged to visit our office at 115 E. 4th Ave. in Stillwater. You may also contact us by calling our office at (405) 377-2344 or our Crisis line at (405) 624-3020.

In the event major damage results in injury, supplement the above message with: • [number of people] were injured while taking shelter. Stillwater Fire and Rescue responded and [number] were treated at the scene and [number] were taken to Stillwater Medical Center for further treatment. Due to the private nature of our business we are unable to release names.

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ACCIDENTAL EMERGENCY CALL If someone accidentally pushes the emergency call button, alert the executive director or a senior counselor.

If alerted prior to the police’s arrival, the executive director or senior counselor should call the Stillwater Police Department non-emergency number, (405) 372-4171. Politely explain the situation as outlined below and thank them for their understanding.

ACCIDENTAL EMERGENCY CALL

Accidental Emergency Call

If the police arrive, cooperate as requested but explain the situation as quickly as possible. If you are at the shelter, call the office to make sure no one there knowingly pressed the button. If you are at the office, call the shelter to ensure they do not need police assistance.

Following the incident, inform staff and clients of the importance exercising caution when in proximity to emergency buttons.

Key Publics • Stillwater Police Department • SDVS employees and clients Key Messages To the Stillwater Police Department: • Stillwater Domestic Violence apologizes for any inconvenience caused by our accidental emergency call. We thank you for your quick response and your understanding in this matter. We greatly value our direct link to the Stillwater Police Department and assure you we will take steps to prevent accidental emergency calls in the future.

To the staff and clients: • As you know, we have strategically-placed buttons linked directly to the Stillwater Police Department. These links are vital to us in emergency situations. Few things are of greater inconvenience than accidental emergency calls. We ask that you exercise caution when you are working near the emergency buttons to prevent accidental calls. Thank you for your cooperation.

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GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

Power Outage – When the Center or the Safe House has a power failure emergency lights will illuminate the exits and hallways. When you experience a power outage find an area with emergency lighting and call (405) 372-3292, City of Stillwater, to come and check the power source.

Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice.

GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

Background A gas leak/power outage will most likely happen at the Center or at the Safe House.

Gas Leak - If you smell anything out of the ordinary or if more than one person in the same area feel light headed or nauseated immediately leave the building and call 1-800-458-4251, Oklahoma Natural Gas.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any gas leaks or power outages at the DVS Center or Safe House and keep them up-to-speed on the subject. If these are emergency situations these key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses. They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance • Emergency contacts • Family Members of Anyone Who has Become Ill Due to a Gas Leak • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS External Publics - to be informed in order of importance • All Secondary Safe homes (to be briefed in case of emergency relocation) • The local media outlets (to inform that the issue is either resolved or under control) • Donors

Crisis Team Members and Crisis Communication Spokespersons At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control and the CCP execution.

Then, contact DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096. She will remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

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GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She can remain in charge until either Dr. Lindsey or Ms. Gill can be present.

GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 372-2707.

Crisis Communication Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for a gas leak or power outage will be located at the Stillwater First United Methodist Church, 400 W. 7th Ave., Phone: (405) 533-2456 The Church will act as a safe haven, and as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential.

If the CCP Control Center is put in jeopardy or is unavailable, the secondary CCP Control Center will be the Stillwater YMCA at 204 S. Duck St. Phone: (405) 372-5833.

In order to keep the CCP Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. If there is a gas leak or power outage emergency where no large, obvious or life-endangering damage has occurred, no media should be contacted. However, if the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld. See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

However, if the situation involves persons of the DVS or could even potentially affect outside parties, contact the media below. The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. Again, the persons involved and their affiliations with the DVS, or the DVS Center and/or Safe House location, is never to be released.

Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000

Key Messages The four key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

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GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE Message Points Positive Outcome • There was a gas leak/power outage at the Stillwater DVC/ Safe House on {date}. All precautionary measures were taken and the Center/Safe House is again running on its regular schedule.

• Fortunately there were no illnesses reported with the Stillwater DVC gas leak. We will open the center back up on {date}, pending the all clear sign from the Oklahoma Natural Gas Company.

GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published. Emphasize the accidental nature of the situation in order to deflect rumors.

Negative Outcome • The Stillwater DVC/ Safe House experienced a gas leak/ power outage on [date}. There were[number] people who got sick/were injured because of this gas leak/power outage. The Center /Safe House is now clear and the people who are sick/injured are being treated.

Overall Message • If you would like to volunteer your time or help in any way at our center, please visit www. sdvs.org for opportunities.

If gas leak ends in an explosion see EXPLOSION section

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HEALTH Background Unfortunately, health-related emergencies happen every day. Reactions must be quick and individualized to the situation for the best outcome.

If a health-related emergency happens at the DVS Center or Safe House, call 911 immediately.

Remain calm, and follow the direction of the emergency operator until emergency services arrive.

Do not panic. If necessary, follow your CPR training. Have a trusted employee or volunteer retrieve a First Aid kit for immediate use, in case it is needed in the crucial time before emergency services can arrive. Have all members stay back and inform them to remain calm.

If hospitalization results in any health-related emergency, it is recommended that a security officer is placed with the patient/victim at the hospital and during recovery to ensure his or her safety and well-being.

HEALTH

Here is a list of possible health crises, divided into natural events, self-injury and third-party injuries.

NATURAL EVENTS/ ACCIDENTAL Natural health crises or accidental injuries encompass physical health occurrences that can lead to long-term physical or mental damage, or even death.

• Heart Attack • Seizer • Concussion • Fainting/Black-out • Traumatic Memory Loss • Other physical or mental health crises • Broken Bone(s) • Accidental Poisoning SELF-INJURY Self-injury crises encompass physical injuries that one has inflicted on his or herself. Self-injuries may also be categorized as attempted suicide attempts, depending on the situation.

• Alcohol or Drug Overdose • Wrist Cutting • Self-Poisoning • Other THIRD-PARTY INJURY Third-party injuries are injuries in which there is usually a victim and a suspect or culprit.

• Mugging • Automobile/ Public Transportation Wreck or Collision • Beating • Sexual Assault/ Rape • Poisoning • Other

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HEALTH When a member of the DVS Safe House, Center or an employee of the Stillwater DVS has any health emergency similar to those listed above, the following steps are to be taken.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any health-related events and keep them up to speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they shouldn’t comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Emergency contacts and family members of the affected party • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS External Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Stillwater Church Homes (as listed in Relevant Third-Party Organizations) • Helping Hands • OSU Future Teachers of America • Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Women’s Group • McAlister’s Deli • Sirloin Stockade • Pita Pit • Thai Café • Red Rock Bakery • Little Caesar’s Pizza • Hideaway Pizza • Large or Long-Standing Donors Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control and the CCP execution.

If he is unavailable, call DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096 to remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director arrives.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She will be in charge of all DVS women, their families and DVS employees and volunteers involved.

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HEALTH

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

HEALTH These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Health-Crisis Communication Spokespersons When a member of the DVS Safe House, Center or an employee of DVS has any health emergency similar to those listed in the categories above, there is to be one spokesperson from the DVS to ensure straight-forward and consistent messaging to the appropriate parties.

DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey is the slated spokesperson for all health crises. He will be in control of the crisis plan and Crisis Plan execution, understanding the most about the situation, giving the best possible outlook to the media. Call Ralph at (918) 845-1618.

HEALTH

In case of Ralph Lindsey’s absence or he is personally involved with a health crisis, the secondary spokesperson is DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill. She will have a position of power in the situation and will have the most facts that can lead to a quick recovery for the Stillwater DVS. Call Ms. Gill at (918) 660-9096.

Crisis Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for a health-related crisis should be at the Stillwater First United Methodist Church, located at 400 W. 7th Ave. Phone (405) 533-2456. It will act as a safe haven, as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential. This is also where the temporary Safe House will be located in this type of crisis.

If this location is unavailable or similarly compromised, the Crisis Control Center should be moved to the Stillwater YMCA, located at 204 S. Duck St. Phone (405) 372-5833. In order to keep the Crisis Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. In most all health-related emergencies, no media should be contacted. However, if the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld. See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

If the situation involves a third-party, do contact the media below. The Stillwater Police Department should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. These steps will ensure the safety of all involved.

To ensure the safety of the victim/patient specifically, no matter the health-related situation, the victim’s/patient’s name and their involvement with the DVS should never be released to the public or media.

If necessary, a search for the guilty party should be initiated and, again, the victim’s name and

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HEALTH

affiliation with the DVS is never to be released.

Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater Medical Center • (405) 372-1480 • 1323 W. 6th St. Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000

Message 1 • The safety and well-being of those involved with the DVS is what we are trying to accomplish with our services. Therefore, we respectfully ask for the names of victims to be withheld. We also ask for the most privacy possible, especially during this trying time.

HEALTH

Key Messages The four key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published.

Message 2 • With the nature of our organization, we sometimes witness unfortunate acts such as these.

The most we can ask for is the public’s support in keeping this matter private and for them to trust us. We are doing all we can to improve this situation to make sure it doesn’t repeat itself in the future.

Message 3 • We are confident in the ability of the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities when necessary) to help solve this crime/resolve these events. It is a tragedy for all those involved and has been a process of learning. However, the women and families who come to the Stillwater DVS are strong, capable and have all the support one could ask for.

Message 4 • The DVS is more than capable to handle these incidents and are doing all we can, in conjunction with the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities when necessary), to resolve the situation. We are working through this incident for the best possible outcome and are looking to the future to bring us hope.

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CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

When conflicting parties initially recognize one another, place distance between parties and move them to separate rooms. Be sure to verify with SDVS personnel the location of both parties before moving locations. If altercation ensues, immediately call 911.

CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

Conflicting parties filing complaints at the SDVS center is highly probable. If this situation occurs, follow the following steps.

Do not speak to any members of the press about crisis. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice. ______________________________________________________________________________ Key Publics Alert the internal key publics of any altercation at the SDVS Center keep them informed on the subject. These publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson(s).

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Emergency contacts and family members of the affected party • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control.

If he is not available, call DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 606-9096 to remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She will be in charge of all DVS women, their families and DVS employees and volunteers involved.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Key Messages If the media does contact the SDVS about the crisis, the key messages the SDVS spokesperson should convey are below. When speaking to the media identify the Safe House as a SDVS Center.

Emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Do not relay any information that might put anyone involved with the SDVS in danger.

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Message 1 • A dispute occurred at the SDVS and the issue will be handled internally. We want to ensure not only the safety of those involved with the Center, but also to the community of Stillwater. We ask that the media will support our decision to keep this matter internal.

Message 2 • A dispute occurred at the SDVS. Fortunately, no one was injured in the dispute. We are working in conjunction with the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities if necessary) to resolve this situation. We are confident in the ability of the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities when necessary) to help resolve these events in a timely manner.

Message 3 • If you or anyone you know has been involved in a dispute resulting in violence, whether it be physical or verbal, please contact the Stillwater Domestic Violence Center at (405) 6243020.

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CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER Background An intruder, potential intruder or person calling and threatening the safety of the center is a very plausible threat. In most cases it will be an abuser looking for someone they know. If you see anyone acting out of the ordinary, attempting to locate the safe house, immediately call 911, so that the police can investigate before harm is caused.

If there is a shooter in the building all staff and building occupants should immediately enter an empty room, close and lock all doors and lay flat on the floor away from windows. If there is a clear path persons should exit the building at the closest exit and immediately call 911.

Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice.

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

If you receive a threatening phone call, immediately call 911. Once connected with emergency services, calmly explain all details of the threatening phone conversation.

If an intruder does enter the center or safe house, be aware that the code word for any intruder is GRAY. Alert staff members and volunteers by using code terms with the word gray, such as “Mr. Gray,” “gray sweater,” or “gray paint.” All staff and building occupants should calmly exit the room the intruderis in, move to another room and lock the door. If possible, exit the building.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any intruders or threatening phone calls to the DVS Center or Safe House and keep them up to speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses.

They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance • Emergency contacts • Family Members of anyone who was injured/killed by the intruder • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS External Publics - to be informed in order of importance • All Secondary Safe homes (to be briefed in case of emergency relocation) • The local media outlets (to inform that the issue is either resolved or under control) • Donors

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CODE GRAY/SHOOTER Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control and the CCP execution.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She can remain in charge until either Dr. Lindsey or Ms. Gill can be present.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Crisis Communication Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for an intruder will be located at the Stillwater First United Methodist, 400 West 7th Ave. Phone: (405) 533-2456 The Church will act as a safe haven, and as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential.

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

Then, contact DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 606-9096. She will remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

If the Control Center is put in jeopardy or is unavailable, the secondary Control Center will be the Stillwater YMCA at 204 S. Duck St. Phone: (405) 372-5833.

In order to keep the Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. In an intruder or shooter emergencies where no large, obvious or life-endangering damage has occurred, no media should be contacted. However, if the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld. See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

However, if the situation involves persons of the DVS or could even potentially affect outside parties, contact the media below. The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. Again, the persons involved and their affiliations with the DVS, or the DVS Center and/or Safe House location, is never to be released.

21

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater Fire Department • (405) 742-8308 • 1510 S. Main St.

Key Messages The five key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published. Emphasize the accidental nature of the situation in order to deflect rumors.

Message Points Positive Outcome • A threat was made on the center/safe house location on {date}. All proper measures have been taken to ensure the continued safety of all those who were involved.

• An intruder/shooter did enter the center/safe house location on {date}. All proper measures have been taken to ensure the continued safety of all those who were involved.

• There are, fortunately, no injuries to be reported from the intruder on {date}. We will now begin to recover from this and are learning how to better protect our center from future intruders/shooters.

Negative Outcome • We are sad to announce that we did have {number} injury{s} on {date} when an intruder/ shooter entered our office/safe house. We are now beginning the recovery process and learning how to better protect our center from future intruders/shooters.

Overall Message • If you would like to volunteer your time or help in any way at our center, please visit www. sdvs.org for opportunities.

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Background The location of the DVS Safe House is never to be revealed. This house is considered a safe-haven for all those who inhabit it and provides shelter that normal houses cannot. It is in a hidden location for a reason—the women and the families who inhabit the Safe House are in immanent danger if their location is revealed. Therefore, the most sensitivity should be upheld in any situation involving the Safe House.

If the location of the Safe House is ever compromised, the following steps should be taken. If there is an intruder, potential intruder or burglary at the Safe House or other DVS location, immediately call 911 and see section CODE GRAY/SHOOTER. Before initializing your Crisis Communications Plan, call 911 and have an officer sent to the Safe House location. Evacuate the Safe House location with the presence of an officer and move all DVS persons on the premise to the Stillwater Medical Center at 1323 W. 6th for a short-term solution. Call (405) 372-1480. Immediately have staff and trusted volunteers begin searching for a new, permanent Safe House location. If you cannot account for all inhabitants of the Safe House, you should have an emergency text message and voice mail sent to any missing members of the Safe House at time of evacuation. If the potential endangerment takes place during school hours, immediately pull all children associated with the Safe House out of school or daycare and take them to the temporary Safe House location.

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Keep the premise under surveillance by the Stillwater authorities until the situation has been investigated and resolved. Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice. ______________________________________________________________________________ When a member of the DVS Safe House, Center or an employee of the Stillwater DVS has any emergency similar to that listed above, the following steps are to be taken.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics when potentially dangerous events take place and keep them up-to-speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses. They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

23

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

External Publics - inform in order of importance • Stillwater Church Homes (as listed in Relevant Third-Party Organizations) • Helping Hands • Large or Long-Standing Donors Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control and the Crisis Control execution.

If he is unavailable, call DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096 to remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She will be in charge of all DVS women, their families and DVS employees and volunteers involved.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Compromised Safe House Location Communication Spokespersons When the location of the DVS Safe House might be in jeopardy, there is to be one spokesperson from the DVS to ensure straight-forward and consistent messaging to the appropriate parties.

DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey is the slated spokesperson for all crises. He will be in control of the crisis plan and CCP execution, understanding the most about the situation, giving the best possible outlook to the media. Call Ralph at (918) 845-1618.

In case of Ralph Lindsey’s absence, the secondary spokesperson is DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill. She will have a position of power in the situation and will have the most facts that can lead to a quick recovery for the Stillwater DVS. Call Brenda at (918) 660-9096.

Crisis Control Center The Crisis Communication Plan Control Center for a compromised Safe House location emergency should be at the Stillwater First United Methodist Church, located at 400 W. 7th Ave. Phone (405) 533-2456. It will act as a safe haven, as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential. This is also where the temporary Safe House will be located in this type of crisis.

If this location is unavailable or similarly compromised, the Crisis Control Center should be moved to the Stillwater YMCA, located at 204 S. Duck St. Phone (405) 372-5833. In order to keep

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COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Internal Publics - inform in order of importance • Emergency contacts and family members of the affected party • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION the Crisis Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

If a crisis of this nature occurs, contact the media below. The Stillwater Police Department should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. These steps will ensure the safety of all involved.

To ensure the safety of the Safe House inhabitants specifically, the names of these women, their families and their involvement with the DVS should never be released to the public or media.

If necessary, a search for the guilty party should be initiated and, again, the victim’s name and affiliation with the DVS is never to be released.

Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Crime Beat, Anita Pere

Newsroom: editor@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000 Key Messages The four key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. When speaking to the media, never reveal the compromised Safe House location was previously the official Safe House; instead, identify it as a DVS Center. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger. Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published.

Message 1 • A situation has occurred that has put one of the Stillwater DVS Centers in potential danger. Fortunately, there are no injuries to report. We are working in conjunction with the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities if necessary) to resolve this situation.

We are confident in the ability of the Stillwater Police Department (name other authorities when necessary) to help resolve these events in a timely manner.

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COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures.

Message 2 • We will provide updates on the situation when there is new information to report. We want to ensure not only the safety of those involved with the DVS, but also the community of Stillwater.

Message 3 • The safety and well-being of those involved with the DVS is what we are trying to accomplish with our services. Therefore, we ask for the most privacy possible, especially during this ongoing investigation. The most we can ask for is the public’s support in keeping this matter private and for them to trust us. We are doing all we can to improve upon the safety we provide and are working through this incident for the best possible outcome.

Message 4 • We are grateful the women and families who come to the Stillwater DVS are strong and capable—true survivors. With the DVS and the Stillwater community, they have all the support one could ask for. We are looking to the future to bring us hope.

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COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

MISSING PERSON • Search the premises to ensure the person isn’t there. Check bathrooms, vehicles and all rooms. In the case of children, search closets, trunks, piles of laundry, under tables and in and behind large appliances – anywhere a child might hide. Call out for the person as you search so they will know you are looking for them.

• Alert the executive director or a senior counselor.

• Alert the Stillwater Police Department. Provide them with as much detail as possible – including a description of the missing person and when and where they were last seen.

• If the missing person is a child, issue an AMBER Alert by contacting

Gene Thaxton

Oklahoma Department of Public Safety

(405) 425-2231

gthaxton@dps.state.ok.us • Discuss the situation with SPD and determine whether to hold a press conference and release information on the missing person. If it is decided the media should be alerted, contact the following outlets and hold a press conference as soon as possible:

Michael Dekker, State Editor Tulsa World (918) 581-8469 michael.dekker@tulsaworld.com

Darla Slipke, News Reporter The Oklahoman (405) 475-3396 dslipke@opubco.com

Anita Pere, Crime Beat Stillwater NewsPress (405) 372-5000 editor@stwnewspress.com

KFOR News Channel 4 Oklahoma City (405) 478-6397

Carlton Houston, News Director KTUL News Channel 8 Tulsa (918) 445-9371 chouston@ktul.com

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MISSING PERSON

If someone, especially a child, appears to be missing from either the center or the safe house, do not panic. Take the following steps:

MISSING PERSON Crisis Team: • Dr. Ralph Lindsey, Executive Director • (918) 845-1618 • Brenda Gill, Senior Counselor • (918) 660-9096 Dr. Lindsey will be the designated spokesperson, with assistance from the Chief of Police when necessary. Brenda Gill is the spokesperson in the event Dr. Lindsey is unavailable.

MISSING PERSON

It is important to coordinate with SPD and any necessary state authorities. Provide them with as much information as possible on the missing person.

Key Publics and Contact Methods: • Local Authorities • Individual contacts • Current Clients • Group Meeting • Potential Clients • Media Releases • Community • Media Releases

Key Messages • Unfortunately, on [date], [person] went missing from [DVS Location]. We are working diligently with authorities to locate [person]. We will update you as more information becomes available. We would like everyone to know that Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is still capable of caring for you if your home isn’t safe. Anyone in need of assistance from the Stillwater Domestic Violence is encouraged to call the hotline at 1-800-624-3020 or visit the office at 115 E. 4th St. in Stillwater.

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BOMB THREAT Try to obtain this information:

Who are you?

Why are you doing this?

What time will the bomb explode?

What does it look like?

Who else have you told?

What is your organization?

Where is the bomb placed?

What type of bomb is it?

Where are you calling from?

BOMB THREAT

Background A bomb threat at the Stillwater DVC could come by phone, e-mail or letter.

If you receive a bomb threat at the Center /Safe House it is important to remain calm.

While you are on the phone or as soon as possible have a co-worker or someone in the room call 911. Write down exactly what the caller is saying and relay it to the police. Listen closely for background noise, voice inflection or any distinguishable sounds to help authorities. Evacuate the building as soon instructed to do so by emergency personnel.

Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any bomb threats at the DVS Center or Safe House and keep them up-to-speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses. They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance • Emergency contacts • Family Members of anyone who is at the Center/Safe house where the bomb threat is located • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS

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BOMB THREAT External Publics - to be informed in order of importance • All Secondary Safe homes (to be briefed in case of emergency relocation) • The local media outlets (to inform that the issue is either resolved or under control) • Donors

CC Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for an intruder will be located at the Stillwater First United Methodist, 400 West 7th Avenue Phone: (405) 533-2456 The Church will act as a safe haven, and as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential.

BOMB THREAT

Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to come to assist in crisis control and the crisis execution.

Then, contact DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096. She will remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

Next, call DVS Shelter Manager Natalie McCarthy at (405) 412-2455. She can remain in charge until either Dr. Lindsey or Ms. Gill can be present.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

If the Control Center is put in jeopardy or is unavailable, the secondary Control Center will be the Stillwater YMCA at 204 S. Duck St. Phone: (405) 372-5833.

In order to keep the Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. If the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld.

See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. Again, the persons involved and their affiliations with the DVS, or the DVS Center and/or Safe House location, is never to be released.

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BOMB THREAT Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater Fire Department • (405) 742-8308 • 1510 S. Main St.

BOMB THREAT

Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000 Key Messages The key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below.

Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published. Emphasize the accidental nature of the situation in order to deflect rumors.

Message Points Positive Outcome • The Stillwater DVC had a bomb threat on {date}. The threat was extinguished and all people at the DVC are safe. All proper measures have been taken to ensure the continued safety of all those who were involved.

• • On {date} the Stillwater DVC had a fake bomb threat. All persons at the Center/Safe House are safe and new precautions are being taken.

Negative Outcome • The Stillwater DVC received a bomb threat on {date}. The bomb did explode and {number} people were injured/killed. On behalf of those involved, we politely ask the public and media for privacy while we recover from this tragedy.

Overall Message • If you would like to volunteer your time or help in any way at our center, please visit www. sdvs.org for opportunities.

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EXPLOSION Background Explosions can be an immanent threat to the DVS Center or Safe House. If an accidental explosion or leak occurs, the following steps should be taken. If the incident mostly identifies with a bombing or an explosion is purposeful, please see BOMBING.

When evacuating the building, first assist children and those with disabilities. Do not reenter the building until the proper authorities have said it is safe to do so. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants, sidewalks and walkways clear for emergency services.

If the location of the DVS Safe House is compromised in the explosion, immediately evacuate the premise and put it under surveillance by the proper Stillwater authorities. Move Safe House inhabitants to the Stillwater First United Methodist Church, located at 400 W. 7th Ave. for a short-term solution. Phone (405) 533-2456. Go to COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION to see more about what to do when the location of the Safe House is in jeopardy.

Do not speak to any members of the press until the Crisis Communications Plan has been reviewed. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice.

Types of Explosions • Accidental • Chemical • Gas Line • Water Pipe(s) • Electric • Sewer • Fire • Car (Extreme wreck on the premises)

EXPLOSION

Before initializing your Crisis Communications Plan, evacuate the affected location and move all DVS persons on the premise to the Stillwater First United Methodist at 400 W. 7th Ave. Phone (405) 533-2456. Please see the Evacuation Plan, along with the map of the DVS Center in this booklet. If the explosion or leak occurs just outside of the premise, gather all to a bathroom and stay covered until authorities have cleared the area. Immediately call the proper authorities and warn those who might be en route to the premise. If injuries occur, call 911 immediately.

_____________________________________________________________________________ When a member of the DVS Safe House, Center or an employee of the Stillwater DVS has any health emergency similar to those listed above, the following steps are to be taken.

Key Publics It is important to alert these key publics of any explosions at the DVS Center or Safe House and keep them up-to-speed on the subject. These key publics should have immediate knowledge of the situation and should be given the appropriate resources. Also, if these publics are contacted by outside parties, they should be prepared with the proper responses. They should be asked to not comment on the situation and instead defer the questions to the appropriate spokesperson or

32

EXPLOSION contact their local authorities if deemed necessary.

Provide an open line of communication to the internal and external publics, designating a phone line and e-mail address to the DVS so all questions can be answered. If the seriousness of the situation allows, counseling should also be provided. These publics are vital to the success and cohesion of the DVS, and their safety, well-being and peace of mind should not be compromised.

External Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Stillwater Church Homes (as listed in Relevant Third-Party Organizations) • Helping Hands • Large or Long-Standing Donors Crisis Team Members At the time of crisis, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618. He should be available to assist in crisis control and the Crisis Plan execution.

EXPLOSION

Internal Publics - to be informed in order of importance: • Emergency contacts and family members of the affected party • Employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS • Other Oklahoma DVS Centers • National Headquarters of the DVS

If he is not available, call DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918-660-9096 to remain in charge of the situation until Executive Director can arrive.

Then, call DVS Shelter Manager Patti Graham at (405) 412-2455. She will be in charge of all DVS women, their families and DVS employees and volunteers involved.

These Crisis Team Members will take all steps necessary to control the crisis. However, if they are not available, call DVS Administrative Assistant Frieda Grischkowsky at (405) 880-2841.

Explosion Crisis Communication Spokespersons When an explosion or related crisis occurs, there is to be one spokesperson from the DVS to ensure straight-forward and consistent messaging to the appropriate parties.

DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey is the slated spokesperson for all crises. He will be in control of the crisis plan and its execution, understanding the most about the situation, giving the best possible outlook to the media. Call Ralph at (918) 845-1618.

In case of Ralph Lindsey’s absence or he is personally involved with the crisis, the secondary spokesperson is DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill. She will have a position of power in the situation and will have the most facts that can lead to a quick recovery for the Stillwater DVS. Call Brenda at (918) 660-9096.

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EXPLOSION Crisis Control Center The Crisis Communication Control Center for an explosion-related crisis should be at the Stillwater First United Methodist Church, located at 400 W. 7th Ave. Phone (405) 533-2456.

It will act as a safe haven, as a location without chaos or other distractions to ensure the crisis communication plan is executed to its full potential. This is also where the temporary Safe House will be located in this type of crisis.

Media Directory Compromising the safety and well-being of those connected with the DVS should be prevented in all measures. In explosion or leak emergencies where no large, obvious or life-endangering damage has occurred, no media should be contacted. However, if the media contacts you, please be as open and honest with them as possible, stressing the sensitive nature of the matter and always ask for names and locations to be withheld. See KEY MESSAGES for more information and specific messages to relay.

However, if the situation involves persons of the DVS or could even potentially affect outside parties, contact the media below. The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments should be contacted immediately to make sure they also understand the sensitivity of the situation if they choose to speak with the media and/or public, as well as to create a media plan that is cohesive with the needs of the DVS. These steps will ensure the safety of all involved.

Again, the persons involved and their affiliations with the DVS, or the DVS Center and/or Safe House location, is never to be released.

Stillwater Police Department • (405) 372-4171 • 701 S. Lewis St. Stillwater Fire Department • (405) 742-8308 • 1510 S. Main St. Stillwater News Press (Newspaper)

Andrew Adams

andrewadams@stwnewspress.com

(405) 372-5000

34

EXPLOSION

If this location is unavailable or similarly compromised, the Crisis Control Center should be moved to the Stillwater YMCA, located at 204 S. Duck St. Phone (405) 372-5833. In order to keep the Crisis Control Center as a place of order and to protect all involved, these locations are not to be made available to the public, media or Stillwater authorities.

EXPLOSION Key Messages The four key messages the DVS Spokesperson should convey when speaking to the media are below. Always remember to emphasize the sensitivity of the matter and ask for privacy. Answer all questions to the best of your ability. If you do not know the answer, simply state you do not know the answer and will look into the situation. Follow up on this pledge. If a reporter is silent, answer with silence. Do not relay any information that may put anyone involved with the DVS in danger.

Generalities are best; do not mention any specifics of the incident. Never provide or allow any photos or locations to be published. Emphasize the accidental nature of the explosion in order to deflect rumors.

Message 2 • There are, fortunately, no injuries to be reported. On behalf of those involved, we politely ask the public and media for privacy while we rebuild our center.

• Unfortunately, number of injuries has/have been caused by this accidental explosion/leak.

Those injured are being cared for and we ask for the prayers of the community.

Message 3 • We politely ask the public and media for privacy while we rebuild our center.

Message 4 • If you would like to volunteer your time or resources, please visit www.sdvs.org for opportunities.

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EXPLOSION

Message 1 • A type of explosion/leak explosion/leak of an accidental nature has occurred. All proper measures have been taken to ensure the continued safety of all those involved.

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Fire Extinguisher

Work Room

Rest Room

Office

Office

Lobby

File Room

Office

Main Entrance & North Exit

Work Room

Storage

Storage

Office

Nursery

Office

West Exit

Kitchen

CENTER MAP

Stillwater Domestic Violence Office Center

Rest Room

Conference Room

Safe Rooms for Tornado or intruder Intrudor

Office

South Exit

CENTER MAP

Exit to Outside

ADA

37 Upstairs

Exit to Outside & Main Entrance

Stairs

Bedroom

Bedroom

Bath Room

Stairs

Closet

Bedroom

Stillwater Domestic Violence Safe House

Bedroom

Hall Way

Bed Room

Play Room

Exit to Outside

Downstairs

SAFE HOUSE MAP

Safe Rooms for Tornado or intruder Intrudor

Dining Room

Rest Room Laundry Kitchen Pantry Staff Living Room Rest Room

Fire Extinguisher

Office

Office

Pantry Rest Room

SAFE HOUSE MAP

CRISIS TEAM Crisis Team Members Dr. Ralph Lindsey Executive Director (918) 845 1618 director@sdvs.org Brenda Gill Shelter Senior Counselor (918)606-9096 gillbre@sdvs.org

CRISIS TEAM

Patti Graham Shelter Manager (405) 412-2455 pgraham@sdvs.org

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Crime Beat, Anita Pere Stillwater News Press (Newspaper) Newsroom: editor@stwnewspress.com (405) 372-5000 Publisher, Pam Nelson prnelson@cnhi.com (405) 372-5000 X290

MEDIA CONTACTS

Michael Dekker, State Editor Tulsa World (918) 581-8469 michael.dekker@tulsaworld.com Darla Slipke, News Reporter The Oklahoman (405) 475-3396 dslipke@opubco.com KFOR News Channel 4 Oklahoma City (405) 478-6397 Carlton Houston, News Director KTUL News Channel 8 Tulsa (918) 445-9371 chouston@ktul.com

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EMPLOYEE CONTACTS Brenda Gill

Marie Abraham Desiree Ingram

Peggy Fleschute Astrid Lorbeer Linda Smolen Sara Bohard Mary Gibbons

Joseph Dunnigan Frieda Grischkowsky B.J. McWherter

Henri Abeyta Interns Joel Wendell Melissa Oliver Helen Chung

Camron Shekarforoosh Fatima Wasim

Shelter Staff Patti Graham Kami Rundel Vicki Orner Amy Littlefield

Kaylynne Canady Marquisha Simmons Kathryn Hufinagle Undergrad /Volunteers Harmony Thomas

Position Executive Director Senior Counselor-­‐ Shelter Senior Counselor Sexual Assault Counselor Victims Advocate Child Advocate Parent Educator Progarm Coordinator Victim Advocate Menders Administrative Assistant Office Assistant

Secretary Position Graduate Intern Counseling Intern Counseling Intern Counseling Intern Counseling Intern Position Shelter Manager Intake Worker Intake Worker Intake Worker

Intake Worker Intake Worker Intake Worker Position Work-­‐Study Student

Telephone E-­Mail 918-­‐845-­‐1618 director@sdvs.org 918-­‐606-­‐9096 gillbre@sdvs.org 918-­‐606-­‐6789

405-­‐269-­‐1534 marie.abraham@sdvs.org 405-­‐372-­‐1198 dingram@sdvs.org 405-­‐269-­‐9483 405-­‐880-­‐0697 pfeschute@sdvs.org 832-­‐814-­‐4470 alorbeer@sdvs.org 405-­‐624-­‐7407 lsmolen@sdvs.org 405-­‐614-­‐0266 sbohard@sdvs.org 918-­‐399-­‐9969 405-­‐996-­‐8162 405-­‐564-­‐4247 405-­‐372-­‐2707 405-­‐880-­‐2841 405-­‐547-­‐7070 405-­‐762-­‐0142 405-­‐503-­‐7870 Telephone 605-­‐673-­‐1542 918-­‐630-­‐0628

mgibbons@sdvs.org

jdunnigan@sdvs.org fgrischkowsky@sdvs.org

benjetph@brightok.net habeyta@sdvs.org E-­Mail jwendell@sdvs.org moliver@sdvs.org

469-­‐877-­‐2123 hchung@sdvs.org

801-­‐726-­‐5813 cshekarforoosh@sdvs.org

Telephone 405-­‐412-­‐2455 405-­‐714-­‐1007 405-­‐361-­‐9320 405-­‐361-­‐9321 405-­‐612-­‐2451 405-­‐547-­‐2080 580-­‐336-­‐8686 918-­‐946-­‐1129 952-­‐210-­‐7842 Telephone 580-­‐484-­‐1973

40

fwasim@sdvs.org

E-­Mail pgraham@sdvs.org krundel@sdvs.org loveslavender2@yahoo.com alittlefield@sdvs.org

kcanady@sdvs.org msimmons@sdvs.org

E-­Mail harmony.thomas@okstate.edu

EMPLOYEE CONTACTS

Staff Ralph Lindsey

EMPLOYEE CONTACTS Sandi Murrell

Shel Millington

Ondreia Thomas

Mary Kate Couch Sue McCraw

Kate Wodarski Audrey Weber

Work-­‐Study Student Student Intern (undergrad) Student Volunteer Student Volunteer Community Volunteer Community Volunteer Student Volunteer Student Volunteer

619-­‐929-­‐1512 nichole.wilbert@okstate.edu 918-­‐857-­‐3621 sandra.murrell@okstate.edu

405-­‐308-­‐7173 sharon.millington@okstate.edu 405-­‐714-­‐0621 thomasondreia@yahoo.com 405-­‐338-­‐8945 405-­‐377-­‐7862

405-­‐824-­‐4229 kate.wodarski@okstate.edu

214-­‐908-­‐8694 audrey.weber@okstate.edu

Shelter – 800-­‐624-­‐3020 Safe House: 800-624-3020 Safe Pager: 747-2098 Shelter Pager – House 747-­‐2098 Code 2Code 51 251 Safe House Fax: 405-624-2410 Shelter Fax – 405-­‐624-­‐2410

41

EMPLOYEE CONTACTS

Nichole Wilbert

IMPORTANT CONTACTS Relevant Third-Party Organizations

Medical • Oklahoma Poison Control Center (Oklahoma City) • Poisoning Emergencies: 1-800-222-1222 • Non-Emergency Poisonings: (405) 271-5062 • Stillwater Ambulance Services • Call 911 for emergencies • Stillwater Medical Center • (405) 372-1480 • 1323 W. 6th St. Physical Property: Damage Control • City of Stillwater Switchboard (Other) • (405) 372-0025 • Stillwater Electric • 24-Hour Electric Problem Assistance • (405) 372-3292 • Stillwater Fire Department • Call 911 for emergencies • (405) 742-8308 for non-emergencies • 1510 S. Main St. • Stillwater Gas (ONG) • 1-800-458-4251 • Stillwater Water and Sewer Services • (405) 533-8048 • After hours, holidays and weekends: (405) 372-3292 Non-urgent Medical or Injury Services • Halley’s Family Dental Care (Dentist) • (405) 377-1155 • 806 S. Pine • Stillwater Physical Therapist • See Stillwater Medical Center

42

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Emergencies or Other Urgent Situations For all emergencies immediately contact 911.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

• Stillwater Psychiatrist/Psychologist • Alison Faith Dancer, MD • Adult and Child Services • (405) 377-1206 • 1301 W. 6th Ave., Suite 210 • Stillwater Vision Clinic (Eye doctor) • (405) 372-3724 • 2123 West 6th Ave. Safety and Security • Falco Alarm • (405) 743-4201 • (405) 743-0660 • Oklahoma State University Police Department • (405) 744-6523 • Payne County Sherriff ’s Department • (405) 372-4522 • 606 S. Husband St. • Secure Analytics (Security Officer/ Private Body Guard) • (405) 533-3273 • 1414 S. Sangre Road • Stillwater Police Department • Call 911 for emergencies • (405) 372-4171 for non-emergencies • 701 S. Lewis St. Supporting Organizations • Helping Hands • Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints Women’s Group • Hideaway Pizza • (405) 372-4777 • Little Caesar’s Pizza • (405) 624-5400

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IMPORTANT CONTACTS

• Stillwater Psychiatric Services: Edwin Fair Clinic • Outpatient Clinic, Systems of Care • (405) 372-1250 • After Hours: (800) 566-1343 • 800 E. 6th St., Suite B

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

• McAlister’s Deli • (405) 743-3700 • OSU Future Teachers of America • Pita Pit • (405) 372-7482 • Red Rock Bakery • (405) 377-3633 • Sirloin Stockade • (405) 624-1681 • Thai Café • (405) 372-8886 Stillwater Church Homes • First Presbyterian • (405) 372-5476 • 524 S. Duncan St. • First United Methodist Church • (405) 533-2456 • 400 W. 7th Ave.

44

APPENDIX Introduction to Appendix Documents Fire Tornado Accidental Emergency Call Gas Leak/Power Outage Health Conflicting Parties at Same Location Code Gray/Shooter Compromised Safe House Location Missing Person Bomb Threat Explosion

45

Introduction The Offices of KWJT Public Relations in consultation with Shelter Senior Counselor Brenda Gill have developed specific communication media for communicating with key publics. The following pages include press releases, facts sheets, memoranda, donor letters and employee e-mails. Please remember these are just guides, not complete releases ready for distribution.

FIRE For fire crises, send a media release to listed media similar to the one provided below. Its goal is to deflect any rumors and to give basic information about the incident. Send within 24 hours of the crisis.

MEDIA RELEASE

Date FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Information: Dr. Ralph Lindsey Executive Director Phone: E-mail:

FIRE

FIRE OCCURS AT LOCAL NON-PROFIT CENTER Stillwater Domestic Violence Services Center Remains Safe after Tragic Fire STILLWATER, Okla. — Cause of fire (if known)is believed to have caused an accidental explosion at the Stillwater Domestic Violence Services Center. Everyone involved in the matter is safe and there are no injuries to report. Explain damage and injuries. Expand on nature of injuries and condition of the injured (if necessary). The Stillwater Fire and Police Departments were immediately called to the scene and were successful in preventing further damage.

Stillwater Police Title and Name is leading the Stillwater Police and Fire Departments in this case.

“All of the proper steps have been taken to ensure the future safety of the Center, and the Stillwater authorities are doing all we can to prevent similar accidental fires in the future,” Last name said.

There will be a full-fledged investigation into what specifically caused the fire, and last name said an exact determination of the fire starter will be released as soon as more information is available.

The employees, volunteers, and the women and families who use the services of the Stillwater DVS say they still have faith in the ability of the Center to keep them safe and protected. “I have always felt at home here at the Center—we really are a family,” Center Volunteer name said, “Families go through tough times and that’s what we’re experiencing now; but honestly, we’re all just happy to be safe and sound.”

The DVS of Stillwater asks the media and community of Stillwater for privacy at this time.

Because of the sensitive nature of the organization, the Stillwater DVS asks all locations and any photos to be withheld from any publications or newscasts to ensure the continued safety of the women and children involved.

The Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization that helps rebuild the lives of domestic violence victims. Volunteer opportunities are available at www.sdvs.org/. For more information on this story or the Stillwater DVS, call DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618 or email at email address.

###

TORNADO Send out the following press release if damage occurs to the center or safe house. If no damage occurs do not send out, but be prepared for the media to contact you, especially if injuries occured.

[date] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dr. Ralph Lindsey Work: (405) 377-2344 Cell: (918) 845-1618

STILLWATER, Okla. – The roof of the Stillwater Domestic Violence Services office is no longer over the building, it’s inside it.

The building, located at 115 E. 4th Ave., lost its roof during yesterday’s storm. Several windows were also damaged. Employees and clients in the building took shelter in the bathroom, file room and the nursery closet. All emerged from the building unharmed with assistance from the Stillwater Fire department.

“We’re grateful we had a plan in place and that all employees knew exactly what to do when we were instructed to take shelter. I also need to thank the men and women of the fire department for their help in getting everyone out safely.” Dr. Ralph Lindsey said.

Repairs to the building will begin immediately. In the meantime, domestic violence services have been moved to First United Methodist Church, 400. W. 7th Ave. in Stillwater. Anyone requiring assistance is encouraged to visit or call Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096. ###

TORNADO

STILLWATER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RECOVERS AFTER STORM Continues Services Despite Damage

TORNADO Send the following letter to Donors and Helping Hands: Dr. Ralph Lindsey Executive Director Stillwater Domestic Violence Services 115 E. 4th Ave. Stillwater, OK 74075

Dear Friend,

Unfortunately, our work has been made more difficult by damage done to our offices in a recent storm. The building repairs are underway, and we are currently operating out of the basement of First United Methodist Church.

However, we are still in need of donations of small office supplies, children’s toys for the nursery, and clothing for our clients. We are also accepting monetary donations to use to buy what we need. All donations are tax-deductible and we appreciate any help you can give. Please bring all donations to First United Methodist Church, 400 W. 7th Ave. Thank you again for you continued help and support in our efforts.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ralph Lindsey

TORNADO

I hope this letter finds you well. We here at Stillwater Domestic Violence have been working diligently to provide safety, hope and empowerment to those who aren’t safe in their homes.

TORNADO Post the following memo for staff and clients: MEMORANDUM DATE: TO: Staff and Clients FROM: Dr. Ralph Lindsey, Executive Director SUBJECT: Tornado Damage & Meeting

TORNADO

Staff and Clients: As you know, SDVS (center or safe house) was damaged in the recent tornado. We are working diligently to restore things to normal, but it will take time and we ask that you be patient with us.

We will be having a meeting tomorrow [DATE] to discuss the situation, take suggestions and offer any necessary assistance. Again, thank you for your patience during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ralph Lindsey

ACCIDENTAL EMERGENCY CALL MEMORANDUM DATE: TO: Staff and Clients FROM: Dr. Ralph Lindsey, Executive Director SUBJECT: Use Caution When Working Near Emergency Call Buttons Staff:

Recently we had an incident involving an accidental emergency call. These buttons are wired directly to the Stillwater Police Department and the department responded without hesitation. This connection and timely response will be indisposable in a crisis situation.

Therefore, I ask that you all please exercise extreme caution when working near the call buttons in order to prevent accidental calls. Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions on how to keep the button from being pressed accidentally. Thank you for all your hard work and your attention to this memo.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ralph Lindsey

ACCIDENTAL EMERGENCY CALL

Distribute the following memo to staff:

Gas Leak or Power Outage Stillwater Domestic Violence Center or Safe House • Each year the average business building/ home experiences approximately 16 power outages • On average the power outages last between 10 seconds to 5 minutes • Do not go near or touch any down power lines • During a gas leak open all doors and windows as you exit the building • As you are exiting the building during a gas leak make sure you do not unplug or plug in any cords or switch any light switches • Do not use any lighters, matches or cigarettes near the building • Know that harmful chemicals such as Carbon Dioxide gas are harmful to your health and have no odor for detection

GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

GAS LEAK/POWER OUTAGE

HEALTH If a health-related crisis occurs, send an internal e-mail similar to the one below to all employees of the Stillwater DVS. Its goal is to keep employees updated on pertinent information about the Stillwater DVS. Send within 24 hours of the emergency. This example reflects a natural or accidental health-related event.

To the Employees of the Stillwater DVS: There was a health-related emergency on date that occurred in location. Explain incident. A volunteer, employee or member of the Stillwater DVS was admitted to the Stillwater Medical Center and is making a steady recovery. (If different, replace with nature of recovery.) Explain what happened, how event occurred, providing the most details possible.

I would also like to take this occurrence and use it as a learning opportunity to improve our services. I believe it is important to refresh DVS employees on what is important to remember during similar situations and what training and certifications are necessary to be a part of the Stillwater DVS’ team.

Please review the list below on important steps to take during any health-related crisis.

HEALTH

I am thankful that all SDVS employees were equipped with the proper CPR and medical training, which helped immensely during the event. I am proud all employees took the proper steps in handling the situation. I ask all employees to withhold speaking to the media on this matter. If the media does approach you, please give them my e-mail and phone number, listed at the bottom of this e-mail.

• Immediately Call 911. In all emergency or potentially endangering situations, immediately call 911 for medical assistance. Emergency operators will be able to help you remain in control of the situation until the proper services arrive.

• Contact Management. Have a nearby employee immediately call anyone in DVS management if none are present. Please see the list of management contacts attached to this e-mail. Immediately store all numbers in your cell phone.

• Isolate the Injured/Sick/Affected Party. To help prevent chaos and disruption, remain in control by moving the affected party to an isolated area. This will help calm the situation and get the affected party the attention he or she needs. Two employees should be with the affected party. Have all other employee stay with all members and volunteers of the DVS to answer questions and keep them calm. If necessary, have volunteers help you control the situation.

• Remain Calm. Remaining calm in health-related emergencies is vital to ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved with the SDVS. Volunteers and members of the SDVS look to the employees for guidance on a daily basis. It is only natural they would need you most in the time of a crisis.

HEALTH • Think. Are there any other steps you can take in the situation to make it better? Trust your gut instincts.

• Always Keep Your CPR Certification and Training Up-To-Date. Situations such as these exemplify why the SDVS requires its employees to be certified in CPR. If your certification is about to expire or you would like to take a refresher course, speak to any member of management during your next shift for more information.

• Stay Aware. As SDVS employees, it is our responsibly to ensure the safety of all involved with our organization. If someone is complaining of chest pains or has seemed weak or fragile in recent days or weeks, tell management immediately. We will ensure the proper steps are taken to get help. Again, always trust your instincts.

Sincerely, Ralph Ralph Lindsey Stillwater DVS Executive Director (918) 845-1618 Insert e-mail This note is a confidential internal communication tool, intended solely for the employees of the Stillwater Domestic Violence Services. If you are not an employee of the Stillwater DVS, immediately erase this e-mail and contact Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618.

Management List Attachment: Brenda Gill Senior Counselor (405) 880-0674 Peggy Fleschute Victim’s Advocate (405) 880-0697 Natalie McCarthy Shelter Manager (412) 651-2309 Background

HEALTH

Again, I am grateful for your actions during this trying time. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Stillwater DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (405) 880-0674.

CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

Dear Employees and Volunteers, On date, two conflicting parties were in the SDVS center, causing a breach of safety for the parties involved. Add a few details, one-to-two sentences, of the situation here. Fortunately, both parties are safe, and both were able to visit the appropriate counselors.

I would like to remind our employees and volunteers about the potential threat caused by having both parties in the SDVS at the same time. Although this is unavoidable, please remember and take the appropriate steps necessary to ensure the safety of not only the conflicting parties, but also the employees and volunteers of the center as well.

1. When conflicting parties initially recognize one another, place distance between parties and move them to separate rooms.

2. Make sure a SDVS counselor or volunteer is in control of the situation.

3. Be sure to verify with SDVS personnel the location of both parties before moving locations.

4. If altercation ensues, immediately call 911.

5. Do not speak to any members of the press about crisis at the immediate time. Inform the authorities to withhold speaking to the media until further notice as well.

If you need more details on this type of crisis, be sure to review the steps in the Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Response Guide or contact me at the information provided below.

Again, as employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS, it is our job to ensure and continue the safety and well-being of all those involved with the DVS of Stillwater. If there are any questions or concerns, please call either Brenda Gill at (918) 606-9096 or Stillwater DVS Victim’s Advocate Peggy Fleschute at (405) 880-0697.

The Stillwater DVS thanks you for dedicated service.

Sincerely, Ralph Ralph Lindsey Stillwater DVS Executive Director (918) 845-1618 director@sdvs.org

CONFLICTING PARTIES AT SAME LOCATION

The following letter should be used solely as an internal communication tool. This letter should be sent to all Stillwater DVS employees and volunteers within 24 hours of a Safe House location crisis. Please update all information as necessary.

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

Date FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Information: DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey Phone: Insert phone # here E-mail: Insert e-mail here

INTRUDER/SHOOTER/THREAT ENTERS/MADE ON LOCAL NON-PROFIT CENTER Stillwater Domestic Violence Service Center is Safe After a Caller Threatened Center

CODE GRAY/SHOOTER

For an intruder/shooter or threatening phone call, send a media release to the listed media similar to the one provided below. Its goal is to deflect any rumors and give basic information about the incident. Send within 24 hours of the crisis.

STILLWATER, Okla. – An intruder/shooter entered the Stillwater Domestic Violence Service Center/Safe House yesterday -OR- A threat was made on the Stillwater Domestic Violence Center/ Safe House yesterday. Everyone in the center/safe house were able to safely leave the location and there are no injuries reported. {If there are injuries explain them here}. The Stillwater Police Department was immediately called to the scene and was able to take the intruder/shooter into custody. (If the intruder/shooter or threatening caller was not captured or arrested, explain why}.

SDVC’s {Name and Title} was present when the intruder entered the building. “All people in the building were able to get to safety without any injury. We are all so thankful that everyone is safe and we will now begin the recovery process to prevent this from happening again,” {Last Name} said.

This incident will not be taken lightly and all safety procedures will be strengthened through our staff and the community.

The DVS of Stillwater asks the media and community of Stillwater for privacy at this time.

Because of the sensitive nature of the organization, the Stillwater DVS asks all locations and any photos to be withheld from any publications or newscasts to ensure the continued safety of the women and children involved.

The Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization that helps rebuild the lives of domestic violence victims. Volunteer opportunities are available at www.sdvs.org/. For more information on this story or the Stillwater DVS, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at {phone #} or e-mail at {e-mail}. ###

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION The following letter should be used solely as an internal communication tool. This letter should be sent to all Stillwater DVS employees and volunteers within 24 hours of a Safe House location crisis. Please update all information as necessary.

On [date], the location of the DVS’ Safe House was jeopardized. [Add a few details, one-totwo sentences, of the situation here.] Fortunately, the location is still protected and the women and families inhabiting the Safe House have been allowed to return. -OR - The home has since been evacuated. Fortunately, all women and children of the Safe House have been accounted for, and are healthy and ready to move on with their lives after this unfortunate incident. The Stillwater DVS is actively searching for a new Safe House location for these families and believe a permanent location will be secured by the end of the week. [List injuries if necessary.] The Stillwater Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation in the matter and is quickly making great strides. We ask for all employees and volunteers to be respectful and cooperative in the investigation.

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind our employees and volunteers about the seriousness of the situation. The DVS and its Safe House were created to protect and serve the victims of violent, sexual and/or psychological crimes that have hurt them in the all-too-real past.

The Safe House serves as a safe-haven from these unfortunate situations. As DVS employees and volunteers, we have all taken on a pledge to protect and help these women and their families to the best of our ability.

As part of this pledge, I would like to remind everyone that we have signed a contract that specifically states we are never to release the location of the Safe House. By signing this contract, we have also pledged to keep other sensitive information that pertains to the Safe House, the DVS Center and/or any of the women and/or children involved with the DVS, private.

If anyone is found breaking this contract, all communication and involvement with the Stillwater DVS and the National DVS will cease immediately and criminal charges will be filed. Breach of contract is a serious matter that will not be tolerated or disrespected at the DVS in Stillwater nor on a national DVS level.

If you have any information pertaining to this matter, please contact Detective Name with the Stillwater Police Department at number. Please remember you can report any information anonymously. If you prefer, contact Stillwater DVS Senior Counselor Brenda Gill at (405) 8800674 with any information.

Again, as employees and volunteers of the Stillwater DVS, it is our job to ensure and continue the safety and well-being of all those involved with the DVS of Stillwater. If there are any questions or concerns, please call either Brenda Gill at (918) 660-9096 or Stillwater DVS Victim’s Advocate Peggy Fleschute at (405) 880-0697.

The Stillwater DVS thanks you for dedicated service.

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Dear Employees and Volunteers,

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Ralph Lindsey Stillwater DVS Executive Director (918) 845-1618 (email here)

COMPROMISED SAFE HOUSE LOCATION

Sincerely,

MISSING PERSON

[date] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ralph Lindsey Work: (405) 377-2344 Cell: (918) 845-1618

WOMAN MISSING FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SAFE HOUSE Authorities Search Stillwater and Surrounding Communities

MISSING PERSON

Sample news release for missing person:

STILLWATER, Okla. – A young woman in the care of Stillwater Domestic Violence Services has disappeared from an undisclosed shelter.

[Person’s name], [Age], disappeared [day] around [time]. She is described as [physical description].

Authorities believe [give thoughts from SPD or other authorities].

“This is a trying time for all of us here at Stillwater Domestic Violence,” Dr. Ralph Lindsey said. “In [years] as Executive Director, we have never had a situation like this. We are working with the authorities to find [person] and would like to assure women in the Stillwater community that Stillwater Domestic Violence is very capable of taking care of them if their homes are unsafe because of abuse.”

If you have any information about the situation, please call the Stillwater Police Department at (405) 372-4171. Anyone in need of assistance from the Stillwater Domestic Violence is encouraged to call the hotline at 1-800-624-3020 or visit the office at 115 E. 4th St. in Stillwater. ###

BOMB THREAT For an intruder or shooter send a media release to the listed media similar to the one provided below. Its goal is to deflect any rumors and give basic information about the incident. Send within 24 hours of the crisis.

Contact Information: DVS Executive Director Dr. Ralph Lindsey Phone: Insert phone # here E-mail: Insert e-mail here

BOMB THREAT AT LOCAL NON-PROFIT CENTER Stillwater Domestic Violence Service Center is Safe After Bomb Threat

BOMB THREAT

Date FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STILLWATER, Okla. – On {date} there was a bomb threat at the Stillwater Domestic Violence Service Center/Safe House. Everyone in the center/safe house is safe and there are no injuries reported. {If there are injuries explain them here}. The Stillwater Police Department was immediately called to the scene and was able to {say what the police did with the caller}.

SDV’s {Name and Title} was present when the threat was made. “We were able to immediately call the police and keep the caller on the line. It was a very scary experience, but we are so thankful no one was hurt,” {Last Name} said.

This incident will not be taken lightly and all safety procedures will be strengthened through our staff and the community.

The DVS of Stillwater asks the media and community of Stillwater for privacy at this time.

Because of the sensitive nature of the organization, the Stillwater DVS asks all locations and any photos to be withheld from any publications or newscasts to ensure the continued safety of the women and children involved.

The Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization that helps rebuild the lives of domestic violence victims. Volunteer opportunities are available at www.sdvs.org/. For more information on this story or the Stillwater DVS, call DVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at {phone #} or e-mail at {e-mail}. ###

EXPLOSION CRISIS For explosion or leak crises, send a media release to listed media similar to the one provided below. Its goal is to deflect any rumors and to give basic information about the incident. Send within 24 hours of the crisis.

Contact Information: SDVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey Phone: (918) 845-1618 E-mail: Insert e-mail here

EXPLOSION OCCURS AT LOCAL NON-PROFIT CENTER Stillwater Domestic Violence Services Center Remains Safe after Blast

EXPLOSION CRISIS

Date FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

STILLWATER, Okla. — Cause of explosion/leak(if known) is believed to have caused an accidental explosion at the Stillwater Domestic Violence Services Center. Everyone involved in the matter is safe and there are no injuries to report. Explain damage and injuries. Expand on nature of injuries and condition of the injured (if necessary). The Stillwater Police and Fire Departments were immediately called to the scene and were successful in preventing further damage.

Stillwater Police Title and Name is leading the Stillwater Police and Fire Departments in this case. “All of the proper steps have been taken to ensure the future safety of the Center, and the Stillwater authorities are doing all we can to prevent similar accidental explosions in the future,” [Last name] said.

There will be a full-fledged investigation into what specifically caused the explosion, and last name said an exact determination of the accidental blast will be released as soon as more information is available.

The employees, volunteers, and the women and families who use the services of the Stillwater DVS say they still have faith in the ability of the Center to keep them safe and protected. “I have always felt at home here at the Center—we really are a family,” Center Volunteer name said, “Families go through tough times and that’s what we’re experiencing now; but honestly, we’re all just happy to be safe and sound.”

The DVS of Stillwater asks the media and community of Stillwater for privacy at this time.

Because of the sensitive nature of the organization, the Stillwater DVS asks all locations and any photos to be withheld from any publications or newscasts to ensure the continued safety of the women and children involved.

The Stillwater Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization that helps rebuild the lives of domestic violence victims. Volunteer opportunities are available at www.sdvs.org/. For more information on this story or the Stillwater DVS, call SDVS Executive Director Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618 or e-mail at insert e-mail. ###

Crisis Communication Plan In all emergencies first call 911, then contact Dr. Ralph Lindsey at (918) 845-1618 Fire • Exit building and meet in the field on 4th Street between Sout Lowry and Lewis streets Tornado • If in the Center hide in – clients’ bathroom, nursery closet or file room • If in the Safe House hide in – laundry room or downstairs bathroom Accidental Emergency Call • Call police station immediately to let them know it is a false emergency • Contact the Center or Safe House to make sure they are aware it is a false emergency Gas Leak / Power Outage • Gas Leak – Immediately leave the building and call Oklahoma Natural Gas • Power Outage – Find the safety lights and call Stillwater Utilities to come and check the power source Health • Isolate injured party • Administer necessary medial treatment Conflicting Parties at Same Location • Isolate one party in a room while you the other party exits the building Intruder • If intruder is outside the building lock all doors and contact authorities • If the intruder is inside the building get all building occupants into a room close and lock the doors and lay flat on the floor Compromised Safe House Location • Immediately call 911 and have an officer sent to the Safe House • Evacuate all occupants and take them to the Stillwater Medical Center Missing person • Search and make sure the person is not on the premises • If it is a child issue an AMBER Alter Caller/ Shooter Threat • Caller – get as many details from them as possible while on the phone • Shooter – All building occupants should lock themselves in a room and lay on the floor till the authorities arrive Bomb Threat • While on the phone with the caller call 911 • Do not do anything or exit the building until instructed to do so by authorities Explosion • Relocate all persons to the Stillwater Medical Center • Help children and persons with disabilities first