‘FirstCall’ system launched for emergencies
AUG. 3, 2007--On Aug. 1, UTMB launched a new emergency communication tool for the university community. Called a “reverse 911” system, the new tool augments existing emergency communication resources such as email and web- and phone-based alerts.
“FirstCall” is the name of the new service. The system will only be activated in an emergency situation when there is a serious risk of harm or threat to life at UTMB. When such a threat occurs, a very brief pre-recorded message will be sent to those who subscribe to the system, instructing them to seek information and updates from other existing university information sources.
The FirstCall system is voluntary and optional. It allows faculty, staff, students and many university contractors to use the new online campus directory to designate an alternate email address or telephone number where an email, voice or text message can be quickly sent in an emergency. The emergency contact information stored in the system is not displayed in the directory or used for any other purposes.
A FirstCall emergency broadcast can be triggered by University Police or UTMB Public Affairs working on behalf of the institutional emergency preparedness officers. The system is supported by Information Services and hosted outside the region by a dedicated service provider.
To register to use the system:
FirstCall is available to all students, employees and UTMB contractors with a listing in the UTMB online directory. The emergency contact information for FirstCall is pulled from new fields in the directory.
1. Click here and look up your name. Additions or edits can only be made from a computer connected to the UTMB network, or when logged inusing the VPN.
2. Click to edit your data. A screen pops up requesting your UTMB user name and password.
3. Enter your username and password and press “submit.” A new screen appears with a button that reads “Emergency Alert Contacts.”
4. Click the button and enter your alternate email, phone/mobile number, or text message number in one of the fields provided. It will be automatically be added to the database.
Text messaging is the fastest and most reliable way to get a FirstCall notification. For those with the capability, it’s the recommended approach. Be sure and enter all 10 digits of your cell phone number, and provide the name of your cellular service provider.
Users should not use their UTMB email address in the “alternate email” field; UTMB email accounts are already part of the existing emergency broadcast system. Voice messages will likely take the longest to disseminate, although ultimately the speed of the messages will depend on how many people sign up to use the system and what options they each select.
UTMB is committed to continue working to improve and enhance its emergency communication capabilities. Building on an already robust system, FirstCall adds the capability to communicate faster to the outlets preferred by members of the campus community.
If you have a question or need assistance, call UTMB Public Affairs at (409) 772-2618 or contact the UTMB Help Desk.