UConn to test emergency notification system at all campuses

Sep. 13—The University of Connecticut will test UConnALERT, its emergency notification system at all of its campuses on Tuesday.

The test will be done at 12:25 p.m. at the Storrs, Hartford, Waterbury, Stamford and Avery Point campuses. It will also be done at UConn Health in Farmington.

The emergency notification system is tested twice each academic year, usually within the first few weeks of the fall and spring semesters.

The test involves multiple messaging platforms. A notice will be posted on the UConnALERT website and an email will be sent to all students, faculty and staff. In addition, posts will appear on the university's Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Cell phone numbers registered with the UConnALERT system will receive text messages. On the Storrs campus only, outdoor sirens will be tested with an audible tone.

UConn Deputy Spokesperson Michael Enright said that it is important for the university to test its emergency notification system in case it needs to be used in an emergency situation.

"In case there's an actual emergency we want to be prepared and ready to go," he said.

Enright added that it is important to have these tests because it is good practice for those who are involved in emergency services. It also raises awareness about the emergency notification system, prompting members of the UConn community to subscribe to it.

In an actual emergency, information will be updated regularly through the UConnALERT website. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to visit the site to register for cell phone text alerts, update their contact information and obtain information related to emergency procedures and campus safety.

"Thank you for your cooperation during the exercise and your support of public safety initiatives at UConn," the university stated.

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