UAF emergency notification system offers timely information
November 10, 2016
UAF emergency manager
This summer, the University of Alaska Fairbanks implemented a new emergency notification system. The new system, Rave Mobile Safety, has been used several times this semester, including in September, during the yearly test of the system, and during a real incident at the Cutler Apartments in late October.
Now that we have had a chance to analyze how the system works, I'd like to share some information with you and answer some frequent questions about our emergency alerting system. While it is nearly impossible to develop a communications model that can distribute emergency alerts to only the people directly affected, the university has developed notification plans based on broad geographic areas. Our goal is to alert people quickly when there is a real or potential threat to their safety.
How was I enrolled in the notification system?
Active university employees and students are automatically enrolled in the alert notification system. University emails, along with phone numbers and email addresses in your UAOnline contact information, will be stored in the system. It's important to check your UAOnline contact information periodically to make sure it is up-to-date.
Why did I receive an alert when I only take classes via distance and am not on campus?
In the case of class cancellations due to weather or other emergencies, faculty felt it was important for their distance students to be informed. It is also possible that distance students could be affected by emergencies on campus, so we have decided to share information as broadly as possible.
Can I edit or change my contact information?
Yes. Visit UAF on Alert and click on the red button on the left to update your information. If you want to receive text messages, it is very important to make sure your mobile phone number, rather than a landline, is listed in the cell phone section.
Can my non-affiliated family members sign up to receive alerts?
Yes. Visit UAF on Alert and click on the "members of the public" link to sign up. If you live in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, you will also have the opportunity to enroll in notifications from the borough's Smart911 system.
How will I be notified of emergencies?
Emergency notifications will go out simultaneously via a variety of channels: text messages to mobile phones, voice calls to mobile and landline phones, emails, pop-up messages on university computers, text messages on campus desk phones, the university's Facebook and Twitter feeds, messages on yellow alert beacons in buildings, messages on digital signage, the UAF on Alert website and loudspeaker messages. In a real emergency, we use as many methods as possible to provide timely information to as many people as possible.
What should I do if I receive an alert?
Emergency notifications will be very short and will include specific safety instructions, such as "close doors and windows," "shelter in place" or "avoid the area." It is very important that you follow the instructions immediately and wait for further instructions, either directly from emergency personnel or via another alert message. Until you receive further instructions, keep following the instructions in the first alert.
In an emergency situation, how long will it take to receive a second alert or an update?
That will vary depending on the type of incident. Emergency responders and the campus incident management team will initially be focused on responding to the incident, helping those in the immediate area and ensuring that there is no additional danger to the community. That can take time. It could be an hour or more before there are additional instructions.
Should I turn off my cell phone?
No, not unless you are instructed to do so. Oftentimes, the alert message will ask you to silence your cell phones. This does not mean turn them off. It means put them in a mode where they will not make noise. You should leave your phones on, but silent, because you will receive followup instructions via your cell phone.
Why does the university do tests of the system?
Testing the emergency notification system allows us to make sure the system is working properly and offers all of us a reminder to check and update our information. It is also required by the Clery Act.
Is the system used for nonemergencies?
Yes. We also use the system to communicate with employees and students about extreme weather events, campus closures and crime on campus. We may use a scaled-back number of methods, including calls and emails, to notify you of nonemergencies.
Why do I receive some messages later than others?
Some of the alerting methods, like desktop popups and messages on the yellow Alertus beacon boxes, happen immediately. Others, such as emails or phone calls, may take longer to arrive due to limitations of our telephone and email networks.
Where should I look for emergency and extreme weather information?
The university will post information and updates, as available, on its UAF on Alert website: uafalert.alaska.edu