Winter Weather Preparedness

What to Expect

Timing: Friday evening (1/23) through early next week (1/26)

Main concerns: Snow and possible ice this weekend, followed by extreme cold into early next week

Housing & Safety Information

Power outage meeting location

• If a power outage occurs, residents should go to the Morris University Center (MUC), which is equipped with a generator
• Bring: Medications, chargers, warm clothing, student ID, and other essentials
• Rhodes Athletic Center will also be available for shelter in an emergency situation

Maintenance requests

• Report no heat, burst pipes, or other urgent issues immediately to University Housing Maintenance (Online Reporting Form) and call (740) 351-3243
• If you do not have internet access and need to report an issue or request help, contact Public Safety at (740) 351-3243

Emergency contact information

• Call Public Safety’s Emergency Line at (740) 351-3232 or dial 911 for any emergency situation
• Call Public Safety at (740) 351-3243 for non-emergency situations

Food & Essentials

Dining Services

• Dining Services will remain open during normal operating hours while local and state travel advisories are at Level 1 or Level 2. Dining will be closed if the university moves to Level 3.
• The Bear’s Den is preparing extra food on Saturday, January 24, so residents may take an additional box of food in preparation for a possible Level 3 on Sunday.

Pantry access

• The Bear Necessities Pantry will be restocked and available throughout the weekend. Please be mindful that with over 500 residents, supplies should be shared thoughtfully.
  • The Pantry is located in the Student Resource Hub on campus (Administration Annex building)
  • In the event of a power outage, visit Morris University Center (MUC) to arrange access to the Pantry
• We encourage residents to keep easy, no-cook food options on hand in case of a power outage

What to Do Now

• Plan a grocery and essentials run if needed. If you need help getting a ride to purchase supplies, call Public Safety at (740) 351-3243
• Charge phones and portable battery packs
• Keep flashlights handy (no candles)
• Prepare warm clothing, blankets, medications, and accessible water
• Monitor university, housing, and RA communications regularly

Ongoing Updates

• Housing & Residence Life updates will be shared via the housing2@shawnee.edu email and through your Resident Advisor (RA)
• University Alerts will be shared via email and text

Who to contact if you need help

• Call Public Safety’s Emergency Line at (740) 351-3232 or dial 911 for any emergency situation
• Call Public Safety at (740) 351-3243 for non-emergency situations
• Contact any Resident Advisor (RA) or visit the Morris University Center (MUC) if you are not sure who to talk to

Thank you for taking these precautions to help ensure everyone’s safety. Our priority is your safety, so please reach out if you have questions or concerns.