Obtaining accurate information during a crisis can be a challenge, but tools are available.
Depending on the magnitude of the emergency, a single method or combination of methods may be used. This may include but is not limited to: building public address systems, email, the Concordia NOW site and the MyConcordia portal, the emergency information line, text messaging, social media and the university emergency notification system.
Text messaging
Text messaging is a quick and efficient way to receive information concerning an emergency situation on campus. To register a cell phone to receive text messages, go to the MyConcordia portal and select “messaging” from the left-hand menu. The university text messaging system uses the following short code (62424). Note that text messages may take up to one hour to reach all recipients during a large messaging campaign.
Emergency notification system and information line (514-848-8800)
The emergency notification system is an automated system used to notify university staff and faculty of an emergency situation or significant disruption to university operations. The system functions on several platforms, placing calls to office phones, cell phones, home phones as well as sending email messages to your university and personal accounts.
The notification system uses the contact information you have provided in your Human Resources profile on the MyConcordia portal. To validate or update your contact information, simply log in, select Employee Self Service, then My HR Profile, then myempath, then Personal, then Contacts. Click on each of the tabs for the various contact methods. Remember to also validate your office location and office extension number as well. The system is updated several times during the year.
Calls from the notification system will display 514-848-8800 and emails will originate from emergency.management@concordia.ca.
The same number (514-848-8800 or ext. 8800 internally) can be called at any time to hear information and instructions related to a significant emergency or building closure on campus.
Building public address (P.A.) systems
This notification system is part of a building's fire alarm system and is used to communicate an emergency situation in the building or in close proximity to the building. If a building evacuation becomes necessary the P.A. will be used with the fire alarm system. In the event of a shelter-in-place emergency, only the P.A. system will be used and no fire bells will be heard. It is often the first system activated during an emergency.
Twitter and Facebook
The emergency management team also uses the following Twitter and Facebook accounts to post information related to significant emergency situations on or near campus. Follow or like the pages to receive updates.
Related links:
• MyConcordia Portal
• The university's emergency Twitter account
• Emergency Management on Facebook
