News Releases

Emergency video

As part of an ongoing commitment to the health and safety of all students, faculty and staff, Saint Mary’s Security has produced a short video about the University’s emergency notification system.

 “The notification system is a tool that allows everyone on campus to be notified in an emergency situation,” says Security Manager Lonnie Ratchford. “The university has won an award for the system, but with new students coming into campus every year, not everyone is always exactly certain what to do when they hear a message. “

 The new video shows a class responding to an emergency message, first without training and then again with guidance. The differences are notable.

Controlled from the security desk in the McNally basement, the system can play eight pre-recorded messages in individual buildings or at a series of different locations. The messages can be played both inside and outside of buildings.

 Some university’s use texting or video screen messaging as a way to notify students and staff of an emergency situation, but the Saint Mary’s system has the advantage of a speaker system that makes the message almost impossible to miss.

 The notification system is just one of several safety programs spearheaded by University security. Others include Husky Patrol, safe walk programs, emergency buttons on pay phones, a 24-hour dispatch desk and after hours access.

 The video can be found on SMUport under the useful links section, on the Emergency Management page and on the Security page.