December 9, 2008

Purdue to test emergency text-messaging system Friday

The 1 p.m. test will read: "This is a TEST of the Purdue text-messaging system. In a real emergency, check www.purdue.edu for details." No action is required from individuals receiving the message.

So far, more than 18,955 students, faculty and staff have signed up to receive emergency text messages. To register, go to https://www.purdue.edu/securepurdue, click on "Change My Emergency Contact Number," enter your Purdue account name and password, and enter your cell phone number.

Text messaging is part of the multilayered system called Purdue Alert used to notify the university community of serious incidents that have occurred on or near campus, said Ron Wright, director of emergency preparedness. Other Purdue Alert components include outdoor all-hazards warning sirens, mass e-mails, the Purdue homepage and Facebook emergency notification group, the local media, and Boiler TV.

For more information on Purdue Alert or emergency preparedness in general, visit Purdue's emergency preparedness Web site at https://www.purdue.edu/emergency_preparedness

Writer: Jim Bush, (765) 494-2077, jsbush@purdue.edu

Source: Ron Wright, (765) 494-0446, rdwright@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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