Emergencies can happen at any time — whether it’s a theft, a fire outbreak, an accident, a case of missing items, or even a social conflict. Knowing how to act quickly and correctly can make all the difference in protecting yourself and others. This guide walks you through practical steps you can take in different situations while on the University of Benin (UNIBEN) campus.
In Case of Theft or Robbery
If you’ve been robbed or witnessed a theft:
- Move to Safety Immediately – Don’t chase the thief or confront an armed robber. Prioritize your safety by moving to a well-lit area or somewhere with people around.
- Alert Security Personnel – Contact the UNIBEN Security Unit immediately. You can call their emergency line if available, or report in person at the nearest gate or security post.
- Provide Clear Details – Give as much information as possible — location, time, description of the suspect(s), and any identifiable features.
- Document the Incident – If you can, take note of witnesses or nearby CCTV cameras that might have captured the event.
- File a Report – You can also use the campus emergency platform to submit a report. Include details such as what was stolen, where it happened, and upload any pictures or files that may help the investigation.
In Case of Fire Outbreak
When you notice a fire outbreak:
- Raise an Alarm Immediately – Shout for help and alert others nearby. If it’s safe to do so, activate any fire alarm or ring a bell.
- Call for Help – Quickly call the fire service number (if within campus) or the UNIBEN emergency line. You can also inform the hall porter or any nearby authority figure.
- Avoid Using Water on Electrical Fires – Never pour water on electrical or chemical fires. Use a fire extinguisher if one is nearby and you’ve been trained to handle it.
- Evacuate Calmly – Leave the building immediately, following the nearest exit. Avoid elevators and do not try to retrieve your belongings.
- Assist Others – Help others out, especially those who are injured or unable to move quickly, but do not put yourself in unnecessary danger.
- After the Fire – Once safe, report the incident formally through the emergency platform and security unit for documentation.
In Case of Social Conflict or Fight
Campus life involves people from diverse backgrounds. If you encounter or witness a social conflict or physical fight:
- Do Not Get Involved Physically – Avoid joining or escalating the conflict.
- Try to Calm the Situation Verbally – If it’s safe, speak calmly and encourage the people involved to stop.
- Seek Help Quickly – Call the campus security or hall porter. If the fight is happening near a faculty or hostel, alert the nearest authority or staff.
- Record Only if Safe – In certain cases, video evidence can help, but never compromise your safety.
- Report Through the Platform – Document the incident through the emergency site, including where and when it happened. The report can help prevent future occurrences.
In Case of an Accident or Injury
If someone gets injured or there’s a serious accident on campus:
- Stay Calm – Do not panic; your calmness helps you think clearly.
- Call for Medical Help Immediately – Contact the UNIBEN Health Centre or security for assistance.
- Do Basic First Aid – If you have first aid knowledge, help the injured person until help arrives. Avoid moving them unnecessarily, especially in cases of suspected fractures or head injuries.
- Do Not Crowd the Area – Give the victim enough space and ensure air circulation.
- Record Key Information – Note the time, cause of the accident, and the people involved.
- File a Report – Use the emergency platform to log the accident, especially if it happened in a public area or due to campus hazards.
In Case of a Missing Item
If you’ve lost an item on campus:
- Check Nearby Areas First – Revisit the locations you last used or visited.
- Ask Around – Sometimes people may have picked it up intending to return it. Ask your friends, classmates, or hostel mates.
- Visit the Security Post – Go to the nearest security station to check if anyone has turned in lost property.
- Report the Missing Item – Use the online emergency platform to log your missing item. Include a description, where it was last seen, and when.
- Update Your Report if Found – If you recover your item, kindly update your report to help others know the issue has been resolved.
In Case of a Missing Person
If a student or friend goes missing:
- Confirm Their Whereabouts – Check with friends, roommates, or classmates to be sure they’re not somewhere safe or offline.
- Report to Security – If the person cannot be found after several hours and their phone is unreachable, contact the UNIBEN Security Unit or Student Affairs Division.
- Provide Details – Share their name, last known location, what they were wearing, and any recent behavior changes or messages.
- Post a Report on the Platform – Use the emergency site to create a missing person alert, including a photo (if available) and relevant details.
- Avoid Spreading Panic – Share information responsibly and rely on official communication for updates.
General Tips for All Emergencies
- Always keep emergency contacts saved on your phone.
- Share your location with trusted friends when moving at night.
- Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark.
- Keep your phone charged and carry a small torchlight or power bank.
- Encourage others to use the emergency platform responsibly.
Final Note
Emergencies can be frightening, but the right actions can make a huge difference. The UNIBEN emergency platform exists to help students report incidents, seek help, and stay informed. Whether you’re a witness or directly involved, don’t stay silent — report it quickly and accurately.
Your alertness can save lives, protect property, and make the campus safer for everyone