Monday, September 13, 2010

TODAY, Monday, Sept. 13 at noon, UNCW will conduct a full volume test of the Seahawk Warning Siren System and related emergency communication tools, including text messaging. The siren test will last approximately 4 to 5 minutes. No action is required when the siren sounds at this time.

With the addition of three new sirens this summer, the university now has 100 percent outdoor siren coverage on campus, including Isaac Bear Early College High School and St. James Drive. Depending on weather conditions, the siren sound may be carried for several miles beyond campus.

Tests of the UNCW Alert emergency communication system will be posted during the sounding of the siren. In an actual emergency, refer to the UNCW homepage, the UNCW Alert site, www.uncw.edu/alert, and the UNCW Alert Emergency Information Hotline at 888.657.5751 for the most up-to-date information.

Students, faculty and staff who wish to receive UNCW Alert emergency text messages and voice mails in a real emergency must voluntarily register for the service via mySeaport. Directions are below. Text messaging is one of multiple communication tools UNCW may use to provide critical information to the campus community during emergency situations. Your cell phone number will be used only for emergency communications and periodic system tests.

UNCW Alert Emergency Text and Voice Messaging sign-up instructions:
1. Go to mySeaport and login
2. Under the Emergency Information section, select "Register to Receive UNCW Emergency Texts on your Cell Phone"
3. Fill in your area code and phone number (you may also add a personal e-mail address)
4. Click "Submit"
5. You can log out of mySeaport or continue on to other applications

The Seahawk Warning Siren System is an outdoor emergency warning tool and may not be audible inside all university buildings. If the siren sounds in an actual emergency, immediately take shelter indoors, seek further information and wait for an all-clear notification.

For more information about the Seahawk Warning Siren System, contact UNCW Environmental Health & Safety at 910.962.3057 or visit www.uncw.edu/siren.