Northwest introduces emergency text system

Northwest Missouri State University has launched Bearcat Alert, an emergency text-messaging system to increase the University’s ability to communicate with students during times of crisis. Scott Walk, health and safety manager, said the program adds another layer to the University’s emergency response plan.

“The goal for an emergency coordinator is to alert as many people in as short of a period of time as possible,” Walk said.

The text-messaging program is voluntary and is open to all Northwest students, faculty and staff. Users must have a Northwest account in order to sign up for alerts. The alerts will cost only what cellular phone plans dictate for normal text messages.

Walk emphasized text messages will be sent only in emergency situations. They could include University closings, an immediate threat/violence situation on campus, tornado, situations of an extreme nature and periodic testing. Messages will not be sent for advertisements, marketing or to communicate campus or community events.

Textcaster, the company selected to operate this program, was chosen because local school districts use it, ensuring that the program would work in northwest Missouri.

Along with the text-messaging program, the University has other emergency notification measures in place. The Simplex System sends audible alerts throughout campus buildings for weather and emergency situations. Additionally, e-mails will be sent and information about an emergency will be posted on the Northwest Web site. Additionally, KXCV/KRNW radio will broadcast announcements in connection with alerts.

“It all goes back to redundancy,” Walk said. “The more ways we have to communicate with staff and students in case of an emergency, the better.”

Students who wish to sign up for Bearcat Alert, may use the electronic form at http://my.textcaster.com/ServePopup.aspx?id=978.

For more information, please contact:

Anthony Brown,
News Bureau Manager
E-Mail: abrown@nwmissouri.edu
Phone: 660.562.1704
Fax: 660.562.1900

Northwest Missouri State University
219 Administration Building,
800 University Drive
Maryville, MO 64468

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