Campus Public Safety

What to do in case of

Inclement Weather

Portland’s winter weather presents unique challenges that can disrupt daily life and campus operations. Taking a few moments to read these procedures can help you stay safe, prevent accidents and reduce stress during snow, ice and other winter weather events. By preparing ahead and knowing what to do, you can protect yourself and help our PSU community stay safe! 

Safety is a Shared Responsibility

Everyone plays a role in keeping PSU safe during winter weather.

  • Everyone: Stay informed, plan ahead, follow University guidance, and make decisions based on your circumstances. If commuting feels unsafe, communicate with your supervisor or instructors.
  • Departments: Develop safety plans, train staff, and address workplace hazards.
  • PSU Incident Management Team (IMT): Monitors conditions, decides and communicates closures, delays or campus-wide operational changes.

Prepare now to protect yourself and others. Review the "Before," "During," and "After" sections to ensure readiness for winter weather events.

Before Winter Weather

Stay prepared to navigate snow, ice, and freezing temperatures with these simple steps.

1. Stay Informed

  • Sign up for PSU Alerts to receive closure and delay notifications by email or text.
  • Check the Campus Closure Page for guidance when campus is closed or opening late.
  • Follow PSU on social media for timely updates.

2. Make a Plan

  • Get Winter Ready: Prepare your home and workspace, including planning for power outages.
  • Departments:
    • Update your department’s communication, emergency response plans and continuity plans.
    • Share this information seasonally in newsletters or team meetings.
    • Implement policies to minimize operational impacts.
  • Faculty and Staff:
    • Discuss expectations for remote work, communication, and responsibilities with your team.
    • Plan for instructional continuity.
  • Prepare for Travel: Identify alternate routes and transportation options. Visit PBOT's Get Home Safe page for walking, biking, and transit tips during snow and ice. 

3. Build a Kit

  • At Home: Stock up on essentials like food, water, flashlights, warm clothing, and blankets.
  • For Travel: Keep traction devices, a fully charged phone, snacks, and warm gear in your vehicle or bag.
  • On Campus: Carry essentials like water, snacks, and any necessary medications.
  • Gear up: Invest in warm clothing and consider microspikes for icy surfaces.

4. Build Community

  • Check in with friends, family, and neighbors to ensure they’re safe and prepared.
  • Include children and pets in your winter weather plans.

During Winter Weather

At Home

  • Limit travel to essential trips.
  • Departments can arrange emergency stays for essential staff through the University Place Hotel Emergency Stay Policy.

Stay safe by staying informed, planning ahead, and taking precautions.

1. Check for Updates

  • Monitor weather forecasts and conditions before heading out.
  • Campus closure notifications will be shared through PSU Alerts, PSU homepage and social media.

2. At Home

  • Limit travel to essential trips.
  • University Place Hotel Emergency Stay Policy: Departments can arrange stays for essential staff. Students, faculty and staff facing life/safety issues can inquire directly. For more information and required documentation, contact UPH at 503-221-0140.

3. Travel Safely

  • Use public transit when possible. Check for delays or changes at TriMet.org or call 503-238-7433.
  • Avoid driving unless necessary. Use sanded routes and allow extra time to reach your destination.
  • Dress warmly and use cleared paths for walking. Stay alert for falling branches, powerlines or icicles. 

4. On Campus

  • Facilities crews clear priority routes early, but conditions may still be slippery. Review the snow and ice removal map for priority routes.
  • Prevent frozen pipes by closing windows and doors before leaving to prevent damage to property or research.

5. Support Your Community: Preparedness is stronger when we support one another. 

  • Check on Friends, Family, and Neighbors: Make sure everyone has the resources they need.
  • Share Resources: Offer assistance to those who may need help with supplies, transportation or staying warm.

After Winter Weather

As conditions improve, take steps to resume normal activities and prepare for future disruptions:

1. Resuming Operations

  • Facility Issues (e.g., leaks or damage): Faculty and staff should report to their department or the Work Control Center.
  • Property Damage: Immediately report all claims involving property loss or damage to the Office of Risk Management at (503) 725-5340.

2. Stay Cautious

  • Monitor changing weather and road conditions, as hazards may persist.
  • Watch for refreezing at night or in shaded areas.
  • Clear snow and ice from walkways and vehicles before traveling.

3. Reflect and Plan

  • Restock used emergency supplies.
  • Evaluate your response and identify areas for improvement. Contact Emergency Management for support.

Campus Operational Changes

You are responsible for verifying weather conditions and PSU’s operational status before coming to campus. For information on what to do during a campus closure, visit PSU Campus Closure Guidance Page.

Additional Resources

Inclement Weather