KU to test emergency alert systems Aug. 27


LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas will conduct a campuswide test of its emergency alert systems at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 27.

This will be a full test that includes text message notifications, email, web and voice alerts through the university’s public address system.

During the test, a three-second alert tone will sound, followed by the test message. Building occupants should continue with normal activities during the test.

Speakers for the public address system have been installed in and around 87 buildings, reaching 98 percent of KU’s academic areas. The buildings comprise the highest concentrations of students, faculty and staff.

For students, the text message system is “opt-out,” meaning student cell phone numbers are automatically subscribed to this system unless the student unsubscribes. Faculty and staff are encouraged to sign up using the process posted at alerts.ku.edu.

In case of inclement weather, the test will be postponed until a later date.

The university’s multi-tiered emergency notification strategy also includes the following:

  • Email alerts: The university’s emergency broadcast system can reach more than 33,000 KU email accounts.
  • Webpage alerts: The university will use alerts.ku.edu as a centralized location for information updates.
  • Established protocols to use local media to help inform the public in the event of an ongoing crisis.

The university also maintains the 864-SNOW hotline that is activated if bad weather forces the delay or cancellation of classes on campus.

Fri, 08/24/2018

author

Andy Hyland

Media Contacts

Andy Hyland

Office of Public Affairs

785-864-7100