Emergency poles at EvCC: Out of service

When in an emergency, the last thing students want to see is an “out-of-order” sign.

 The EvCC emergency pole located at the northeast corner of the Index Quad has been out-of-order since security last did their routine maintenance check on campus, which occurs every quarter.

These poles are intended for emergency purposes, enabling anyone in trouble to call the security office for immediate assistance.

In total, there are five of the red emergency poles dispersed throughout the campus, along with a new blue pole located next to the new Whitehorse building.

During maintenance checks, the campus security officers make sure that all phone lines are intact, batteries are running, emergency kits are fully stocked, and other tasks to ensure campus safety.

The most recent maintenance check took place from April 21-25. During this check, the phone unit underwent repairs to a faulty phone line.

But what do you do in case of an emergency if you are unable to use the emergency phone?

If you don’t have a cell phone to dial 911, or the security office at 425.388.9912, there’s usually always someone bound to be on campus to hear your calls for help. “Don’t be shy to holler for help. Nobody’s ever died of embarrassment,” said George Olson, director of campus security.

According to Olson, repairs to the phone unit were approximately $750.

“I have a small amount of ‘repair to equipment’ money in my budget to repair the unit,” Olson said.

Security officers make repairs themselves, unless an expert is needed.

“I hope nobody decides to attack me near a pole that doesn’t work,” said Christopher Stevens, an EvCC student. “I want to at least have a chance to call for help.”