In order to minimize the damage caused by disasters, college campuses must properly develop and actively use emergency action plans. The main components of campus emergency action plans are outlined, including a listing of possible priorities such as the protection of university property and the protection of the health and lives of students. Campus plans should cover a range of crises and emergencies, including bomb threats, civil disturbances, and food poisonings and should be simple enough to follow during chaotic situations. Once the plan has been developed, it is up to campus personnel to put the plan into use by identifying risks and vulnerabilities, prioritizing key resources and assets, building strategic relationships and incident command structures, and training. When assessing risk, the authors recommend including special events and other unique campus situations in the risk assessment process. Campus personnel are also advised to build key partnerships to fill the inevitable gaps in university access to emergency personnel, equipment, and funding. The training component of the emergency planning process should involve exercises of different types of crises and should use the latest technological tools to facilitate efficient emergency response. The emergency planning process should be a continual effort that includes ongoing evaluation and attention to strategic partnerships. References