Michigan State University has launched a new mass notification system to alert faculty, staff and students in the case of an emergency on campus.
The new MSU Alert system has the ability to send a short message via text message, e-mail and phone call in the event of a disaster. It replaces the university’s prior list serve, reverse 911 and e-text services.
“Michigan State University is committed to the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” MSU police Chief James Dunlap said. “The new system adds another element in our ability to get out timely warnings to our community in event of a disaster, which will help us save lives and prevent injuries.”
All members of the university’s previous alert system have been automatically signed up for the new service, as have all MSU phone numbers; a test message was delivered earlier this week. To enroll a phone number, e-mail or mobile phone number, or for more information on the new system, visit http://www.alert.msu.edu. Three phone numbers can be added in addition to an MSU number.
The new service is powered by Blackboard Connect, with technology housed on redundant telecom services nationwide. The service will be faster and more stable, Dunlap said.
“It allows our department to use all forms of mass communication at one time, including the ability of the duty supervisor to make this notification from the computer system in our patrol cars,” he said. “Our hope is to provide timely and accurate dissemination of information as well as the suggested action for community members to take.”
As part of the MSU Alert system, members of the MSU community also can call (888) MSU-ALERT to hear recorded information about current alerts. The local number for the alert line is (517) 432-5378. Information also will be distributed via Twitter at http://twitter.com/msualert.
