Behind the safety alerts
How UM's mass notification system works in an emergency
In an emergency, quick access to accurate information is vital. Keeping students, faculty and staff informed is a key priority of UM’s emergency response.
From loudspeakers across campus to instant alerts on your phone, UM’s mass notification system is designed to get critical information out fast.
Gordon Perrier, Director of Security Services, and Chris Bohonis, Assistant Director of Security, recently sat down to share how the system works, when it’s activated and what upgrades are making it even better.
The following is a condensed version of that conversation.
What is the UM Safe App and how does it work during emergencies?
The UM Safe App is the primary tool for emergency communication. It’s important to download the app and create a profile to ensure you receive notifications.
Once registered, users can receive alerts at up to five email addresses, five SMS numbers and VoIP-enabled landlines.
What happens if someone hasn’t downloaded the app?
Even without the app, students and staff will still receive alerts through their university email.
If they’re on the Fort Garry campus, they may also hear messages through the loudspeaker tower system.
UM also communicates through traditional and social media in an emergency.
Who decides when an emergency alert is sent out?
In dire emergencies, Security Services initiates the alert immediately. The situation must be imminent and ongoing to trigger a mass notification.
If a threat is resolved quickly and there is no ongoing danger, a mass alert may not be sent.
Who’s behind the scenes during an emergency?
Institutional safety officers in Security Services work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They’re responsible for general response, activating systems, coordinating with public services, and ensuring the right protocols are followed.
Once police, fire, or ambulance arrive, they take command and control. Security Services supports them and follows their lead on communication. For example, they may ask us not to send a message if it could interfere with their response.
How often is the system tested?
The systems undergo configuration testing every 12 hours.
The full loudspeaker tower system is tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 1:00 PM. During the test, you’ll hear an air horn followed by a message that this is an emergency test. In a real emergency, the sound is a siren, followed by a message with instructions.
What upgrades are being made to the system?
Infrastructure is being improved. For instance, emergency poles are being replaced with new yellow units. This project is about 25 per cent complete. CCTV is also being upgraded and multiple systems are being integrated into a single coordinated platform.
UM’s Emergency Response Plan guides actions, decision making, communication and coordination of response. While emergencies are rare, improvements are continually being evaluated to ensure crucial information can be shared quickly to support safety on all UM campuses.
Key takeaways:
- Download the UM Safe App and keep notifications turned on to stay informed and connected.
- Register up to five additional personal email addresses or phone numbers in the app.
- Visit Security Services for more safety information and programs.