VCU to test emergency alert system with sirens, texts and more
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is set to conduct a test of its emergency alert system on Wednesday.
According to a release from VCU Police, the test is scheduled to take place at noon on Wednesday, Sept. 3, and will include an activation of the following safety mechanisms:
- Outdoor sirens located on the Monroe Park Campus, MCV Campus and at VCU Police headquarters, located at 224 E. Broad St.
- Alertus boxes located inside residence halls, classrooms and high-volume areas in academic buildings
- VCU Alert text messages before, during and after the test
Additionally, the full test will include a one-minute siren activation, mass email, digital signs, desktop alerts, the LiveSafe app, the VCU Mobile app and VCU Alert website information.
These alert methods are part of a multichannel system that allows for emergency information to be communicated to the university, as well as the surrounding community. Members with the VCU Health team will also receive a test email and text message.
Ten minutes before the test starts, those subscribed to VCU Alert emergency texts and emails will get a message stating that the test begins at noon. There will also be a second text message sent at noon to indicate the start of the test, and additional messages will be sent once the alert system testing has finished.
