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Alert U - Frequently Asked Questions

What will the UMMC Alert U system be used for?
- Alert U is managed by the UMMC Police Department and used to broadcast emergency messages, public safety alerts, weather notifications and timely warnings. It is meant to be used by anyone on or coming to a UMMC campus.
Does Alert U work for visitors?
- Yes, it does. Patients, families and visitors to a UMMC campus can text ALERTU to 333111 to temporarily receive text alerts. Access ends at the end of each month and must be renewed to continue receiving texts.
I’m having trouble setting up the Everbridge mobile safety app. What can I do?
- Please refer to these technical assistance guides:
  - Everbridge Quick Reference: Initial Setup
  - Everbridge Quick Reference: Using the App
Is the Alert U system reliable?
- While there is no perfect system, this system is used by many peer institutions and municipalities and has been very successful and reliable. Even though the UMMC Alert U System is designed to deliver a large quantity of messages as rapidly as technology allows, messages may be delayed by your phone, Internet, and/or cellular service providers.
I didn't receive an alert when others did. Why wasn't I alerted?
- Visitors must request text alert access monthly, to avoid receiving alerts after they’ve left campus. Note: If you are a UMMC employee or student, please follow the initial Setup guide to correct your contact information in Workday and download the Everbridge mobile safety app, available in the Apple Store and on Google Play.
  - Everbridge Quick Reference: Initial Setup
How much does it cost?
- There is no charge for use of this system. However, your wireless service provider may not include free text messaging services, and you may be charged to receive a text message. Please check with your wireless service provider for more information on text messaging fees. We cannot provide refunds or payments for your text messaging service.
Can I add a family member to receive Alert U messages?
- The Alert U portal allows Students and Employees to add family members' mobile numbers to their Everbridge accounts. This will ensure their family members receive important safety and weather alerts for Alert U.
  - Portal Link: https://umc.edu/alertuportal
  - Portal Link Training: Alert U Portal Training
When will alerts be sent?
- UMMC Alert U will be used to notify you of situations that present a threat to your safety. This includes, but is not limited to, terrorism, tornado and other weather warnings, public safety crises, health afflictions and hazardous material spills.
What should I do if I receive an alert message?
- First, follow the instructions in the message, which may contain evacuation information or guidelines on "securing in place." Details on where to find additional information will usually be included with the alert too. Next, "pass it on." Spread the word and tells those around you about the alert.
  - (ask UMMC Police if there is existing information we could link to.)
Do I need to confirm the message?
- Alerts sent through Alert U now include a link to confirm receipt of the message. When you confirm the message on a device (telephone, text message, etc.) the system will not continue repeated attempts to reach you via other devices.
What is the Clery Act?
- The Clery Act requires an institution to alert the campus community to certain crimes in a manner that is timely and will aid in the prevention of similar crimes. The intent of a warning regarding a criminal incident is to enable people to protect themselves. Learn more about the Clery Act at UMMC.