SMU Aware will conduct a test of the indoor emergency notification system beginning at 8:15 a.m. on Friday, August 5. This test will encompass most buildings on SMU’s campus and include audible and visual alarms and a brief lockdown of exterior doors. Interior doors and parking garages will not be impacted. The full sequence of testing is expected to last no longer than 30 minutes.
What to expect during the test:
- The indoor notification system (audible voice alarms) will be activated with a series of messages lasting approximately one to two minutes each.
- Messages will reference various emergency notifications that may include a dangerous situation, active shooter, lockdown, evacuation, shelter in place, tornado warning, or severe weather.
- Each message will be followed by a one-minute break before continuing its sequence.
- The first message will be a test and the final message will signal an all clear or an end to the testing.
- During the active shooter/lockdown message, all exterior doors will be electronically secured and then default to normal operations once the message concludes. When doors are locked, SMU IDs will not permit access in or out of buildings. The timing may vary per building, but the lockdown portion is not expected to last longer than 5 minutes.
Please see the SMU Aware website for information about what to do in various emergencies. If you have questions regarding planned testing, please email smuaware@smu.edu.
You will receive a text message reminder prior to the test, and an “all clear” text message and email after it is completed with a request for feedback. We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to enhance campus safety and security.