The campus will be conducting a test of the UMass Amherst Alerts emergency notification system today between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The test is part of the University’s efforts to evaluate and improve its ability to provide effective emergency notifications and warnings during a campus emergency, according to press release from University of Massachusetts Emergency Manager Brian Olsen.

The test will include the UMass Amherst Alerts emergency text messaging, broadcast e-mail and outdoor warning sirens. Text messaging is one of the primary methods the University will use to notify the campus community of an ongoing or imminent threat, and to register for these emergency texts at www.umass.edu/alerts and click on the “Text Messaging” tab onscreen. Students are also encouraged to download a copy of the University’s Emergency Procedures and Protective Action Guide, which can be found by clicking on the “Home” tab.

– Collegian News Staff