PurdueALERT tests scheduled for West Lafayette and Indianapolis during Boiler Gold Rush
Tests of the PurdueALERT emergency warning notification system are scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 10:55 a.m. for the West Lafayette location and Thursday, Aug. 21 at 2:55 p.m. for Purdue University in Indianapolis. The tests will take place during Boiler Gold Rush (BGR), Purdue’s annual orientation program for incoming students.
West Lafayette
As part of the test in West Lafayette, the all-hazards outdoor emergency warning sirens will be activated weather permitting. The test will help students know what to listen for and what to do during a potential campus emergency. In an actual emergency, the sirens mean to immediately seek shelter in the nearest building.
The test will also include text messaging, email, X/Twitter updates (@PurdueALERT), digital signs and desktop pop-up alerts. The Campus Emergency Status webpage will be updated in the event of an actual emergency.
Students will also participate in an evacuation drill during BGR. The drill will require students to evacuate Elliott Hall of Music and several other buildings.
Indianapolis
In Indianapolis, the PurdueALERT test will include text messaging, email and X/Twitter updates. In an actual emergency, the Campus Emergency Status webpage will also be updated for Indianapolis.
“At either location, it’s important for students to understand what to expect and how to respond in the event of an emergency,” said Jefferson Howells, director of Emergency Preparedness. “BGR is a good opportunity to conduct tests because students are already taking the time and effort to get to know campus and their new surroundings.”
All students, faculty and staff at both locations are encouraged to sign up for emergency text message notifications. Up to three numbers may be registered.
The Office of Emergency Preparedness is part of Administrative Operations. The organization supports the university by providing safe, reliable and transformative services. Ensuring students at each location know what to expect and how to respond during an actual emergency is just one of the ways the organization helps power Purdue.