Last Thursday, UTM students received an email with instructions on how to download a software program that will automatically send emergency alerts to their computers.
The Campus Emergency Alert software forms part of the U of T Emergency Alerts system, which aims to alert students about campus-related emergencies. Unique to UTM, the software runs in the background of the user’s computer. A window pops up only if an emergency is declared. The computer must be online for the alerts to be transmitted, and the software is available for both Windows and Macintosh users.
Before the software was set in place, the U of T Emergency Alerts system already offered UTM, UTSC, and St. George students and staff the ability to receive the alerts by phone. By registering their mobile numbers with the system, users ensure they will receive an automated voice call and/or a text message if the University declares an emergency. The voice call and the text message will contain instructions on what to do and where to find more information.
UTM officials encourage all students and staff to participate in the program. “A critical aspect of our success in responding to an emergency or crisis relates to communication—getting the right message out to as many people as possible as quickly as possible. The more people who sign up for the alert system, the better coverage we will have,” said chief administrative officer Paul Donoghue.
Those who are interested in opting in the program can do so by visiting www.utm.utoronto.ca/CampusAlertSystem. They can also call a UTM Computing Services coordinator at 905-828-5344 if they encounter any difficulties.
