Text messaging is one of several tools used to communicate during an emergency and is often the quickest way to be notified. Other emergency campus notification tools include verbal broadcasts from the bell tower, messaging on campus computer screens, email, and voicemail.

Below is a list of FAQs about UCR's Emergency Notification System (ENS).
 

What is the Emergency Notification System (ENS)?

The UCR Emergency Notification System, or ENS, is a mass notification system used to send text/SMS messages to students, faculty, and staff members in the event of an emergency or immediate threat to campus or the surrounding community.

For example, if UCR was aware of a fire impacting a campus building, a text notification with details about the event and location of the fire would be sent to the cell phones of all users whose numbers are in the ENS database. 

What if I don't have a number on file?

If you do not have a cell phone number on file with the university, you will not be able to receive emergency SMS notifications. Please update your contact information in Banner and/or UCPath to include a mobile phone number that should be used to contact you in the event of an emergency. 

Instructions on how to update your contact information in these systems can be found below: 

Updating Your Phone Number - Instructions for Students 

Updating Your Phone Number - Instructions for UCR Employees

Does it have to be a cellphone number?

Yes. Other numbers, such as those associated with landline phones or fax machines, cannot receive text/SMS messages and will not be able to notify you in the event of an emergency. 

What if I need to change my number on file?

To change your number on file, you must update your contact information in Banner and/or UCPath. See "What if I don't have a number on file" above for instructions. 

Can I opt out of the ENS?

The Emergency Notification System (ENS) is crucial to the safety and well-being of the campus community. You are not able to opt out of receiving ENS alerts via your UCR email. However, although it is highly discouraged, it is optional to opt out of ENS text messages by texting 'STOP' to 226787. If you later wish to opt back in, you can text 'START' to 226787. 

Need technical assistance? 

• Please submit a support ticket or call BearHelp at 951-827-4848 if you need technical support.