Emergency Notification
Examples of how Emergency Notification at the U of A works.
Alertus_Beacon: This is a new hardware piece that you will start to see around campuses.
Alertus_Desktop This is a new software package we are evaluating for all U of A computers.
Telephone This is our telephone emergency notification system
Ualberta App. The University of Alberta's mobile application for iOS devices contains the ability to notify you during emergencies.
Emergency Alerts on Your Mobile Device
U of A Alerts is a combination of communication methods to alert you should an emergency incident happen at the University. U of A Alerts also provides information updates to keep you informed until the incident is resolved.
A new method for opting in to text messaging (note the previous system is no longer in operation)
Last fall (2011) we moved to an improved system for broadcasting emergency text messages. To "opt-in" to receive emergency text messages, simply:
Text UOFAALERT to 77777 (standard rates will apply).
This will ensure your wireless provider knows you wish to receive these
urgent messages and will help prevent the messages being labeled spam. You will receive a text message in case of a campus-wide alert. You will also receive two test text messages per year.
Please note: You will need to opt in using this method even if you signed up through Bear Tracks previously. This is a new system; the old system is no longer operational.
If at any point you wish to opt out, simply text STOP to 77777. If you cease your subscription you will continue to receive notifications through building alarms, e-mail, mobile app notification and web-page updates.
These Questions and Answers are designed to help address common concerns about U of A Alerts.
I can't remember if I signed up to 77777. Can I check? Yes. Simply follow the steps to sign up. If you are already in the system you will receive a message indicating "You have already subscribed to University of Alberta Emergency Alerts...."
How will the system notify me personally? The system is capable of sending email and text messages to students. Email messages will be sent to your University-supplied address (you@ualberta.ca).
Text messages will go to the text device at the number you provide.
What kinds of emergencies is SMS and email messaging used for?
Only for large-scale events that have implications for many people. This could include severe and imminent weather events such as tornadoes, “man-made” disasters such as fires or chemical releases or acts of violence.
How quickly can you actually send out a warning?
Messages can usually be issued within minutes. Information must be verified by University of Alberta Protective Services then input into the notification system for immediate delivery.
I've heard that email and SMS can be slow in an emergency.
When large volumes of messages are being delivered at once, the various systems can slow down. For this reason we ask everyone to pass on the message to those around them who may not have received it.
How will I recognize an emergency communication?
Text messages will show the following code: 77777
Email messages will show the following return address: emerg@ualberta.ca
Do I have to pay for the text messages you send me?
If your provider charges for text messages, yes.
What would an emergency message contain?
In a very few words, a typical message would indicate what is happening, where it is happening, and what you should do for your own safety and the safety of others.
Is the mobile application available only for Iphone?
No, the mobile application is available for Iphone, Ipad and Ipod Touch. While you can (and should) download the app for your Android advice, it does not yet contain emergency notification functionality for Android devices.
I only check my U of A email address occasionally. Is that useful in a critical emergency?
The email component of the notification is only one of several methods. You will be notified using one of the other methods.
Will my cell phone information be secure?
Yes. The University will follow all applicable FOIPP protocols and security measures.
Will the system be available to all University of Alberta campuses?
All campuses have systems for emergency notification. E-mail, building alarms, text messaging, the mobile app, twitter, and the U of A website are all tools that are available to all campuses. Students in the Faculty of Extension do not receive U of A e-mail addresses, so they are not included in the e-mail delivery.
There are things that could go wrong – the phone and computer lines could go down; people could ignore their phones etc. Are you putting all your faith in this email and text message system?
No. The University will continue to use all existing alarm and warning systems. These include fire alarms, radio messaging to field staff, the University website, and, when appropriate, public service announcements through the local media.
It seems strange to use SMS when many students are asked to turn their devices off in class. Does this mean it’s okay to leave my phone on?
Please continue to follow your instructors’ requests. As stated above, messages to email and text device make up only part of the University’s notification system.
Why did the text message take so long to get to my phone?
There are issues with some cell phone companies and the aggregators used to send mass text messages. This is a complex issue similar to the issue of 'spam' e-mail and is affecting mass notification services across Canada. Staff from the Office of Emergency Management, other post-secondary institutions and major cell phone carriers are working together on the analysis of the issue.
If I don't have my mobile phone or my e-mail in front of me, how else will I know an emergency is happening?
Building fire alarm systems remain the principal communication device for emergencies on campus. Before the alarm is activated, you may see, smell, or hear an emergency underway. Further, your colleagues, classmates, professors, teaching assistants, support staff and others may tell you about it. You may also see or hear First Responders attending the emergency or travelling to it.
If you have any other questions or need assistance, please contact Adam Conway at adam.conway@ualberta.ca or 780-492-0037