VT Alerts constantly changing, growing
October 21, 2010
Since its introduction to campus in 2007, the Virginia Tech Alerts system has continued to learn and modify itself.
VT Alerts
VT Alerts is Virginia Tech’s system of emergency notifications sent to subscribing students and faculty. It is maintained by the Office of University Relations. The system was put into place following the April 16, 2007 shootings and criticism that on-campus residents were not notified quickly enough of the danger.
By default, the system utilizes the university Web site, Tech e-mail accounts, electronic messaging boards in classrooms, campus sirens and loudspeakers, and a weather/emergency hotline at 540-231-6888 to broadcast messages.
Additionally, students can sign up for VT Phone Alerts for notifications through phone and text messages, as well as download VT Desktop Alerts ― a software widget available for Windows- and Mac-based systems that broadcasts online notifications to users’ computers.
Content on VT Alerts:
VT Alerts to be tested Thursday
September 29, 2010
The VT Alerts system will be tested today at some point between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to a university press release.
Thunderstorm watch postpones graduation ceremony
May 14, 2010
Because of forecasted hazardous weather conditions, university commencement exercises have been postponed by one hour.
Tornado drill set for Tuesday morning
March 16, 2010
Virginia Tech will test its emergency notification system Tuesday morning by participating in a statewide tornado drill.
December 1, 2009
Students will not receive messages from the VT Desktop Alerts software until they download a new version, following the discovery of a software bug in the existing version.
University of South Florida puts emergency alert systems to the test
October 7, 2009
The University of South Florida dealt with a security scare Monday, using alert systems installed following the April 16, 2007, shootings at Virginia Tech.
Thursday trial to test alert system
September 28, 2009
Wailing sirens, text messages, e-mails, desktop widgets, phone calls and LED message boards will bombard students in an Oct. 1 test of the VT Alerts system.
August 26, 2009
Two weeks after it launched the VT Desktop Alert, the university is fielding inquiries from other universities for the new message alert system.
VT Desktop Alert not a flawless execution
August 12, 2009
Virginia Tech announced its launching of a VT Alert that activates through your computer.