College campuses are a focal point for civil unrest during periods of cultural changes. This is due to the nature of the mission of higher education in promoting civil discourse on many topics.
Civil discourse can turn into activities that violate policies and laws, leading to violence and property damage. We must prepare our campus community for civil unrest.
Watch for Missouri State Alerts, check social media and listen to other forms of media. Use your own senses: Your eyes and ears can be lifesavers.
Do not go over to the area because you are curious. This makes the problem worse and requires more assistance to keep everyone safe.
Mob mentality occurs fast and you do not want to be in it. Delays put you at risk.
Go with the flow and move toward the edge at an angle to get away. Do not draw attention to yourself by trying to defuse the situation or getting into an argument. As police work to instill order, panic will often lead to crowd crush. You need to be away from the center to have the best chance of staying safe.
In the unrest, Law enforcement do not know the innocent from the instigators. They will not have time to hear every explanation about why someone is there.
Avoid using the vehicle to push through the crowd.
Vehicles often become targets of the violence. You do not want to be stuck inside.
When it gets to this point, you are now in immediate danger. Try to drive away. Getting out of your car will likely lead to serious injury.