UMass System Office Emergency Alert System
Overview
What is the UMSO Emergency Alert System?
UMSO Emergency Alert System is the University’s emergency notification system that gives the
University the ability to communicate health and safety emergency information. The system uses
multiple notification methods in a best effort to reach UMSO employees via UMSO E-mail Address, SMS
text messages and voice messages to your cellular phone.
What will prompt an UMSO Emergency Alert to be generated?
The system will be used for two types of alerts:

First, the system is designed to be used during emergency situations that require immediate
action by the recipient. Emergencies are events that can cause physical injury to employees,
cause physical or environmental damage or disrupt University operations; such as, active
shooter, hazardous materials spill or tornado warning.

Second, the system will be used to notify UMSO employees of office closure or flexible start
time, due to inclement weather.
The system will NOT be used for general public relations, marketing or other non-urgent
communication.
How Do I Sign Up?
The system automatically loads all active UMSO e-mail addresses into the system. Participation to
receive text message notifications and voice message notifications to your cellular phone are optional.
You need to log into your HR Direct Self Service page and add your cellular phone number to the
“mobile” field. Otherwise, you will be notified of emergency situations only via your UMSO e-mail
address (again, UMSO e-mail addresses are automatically loaded into the system). If you have
previously entered your cellular phone in the “mobile” field and choose not to receive text messages
and voice message notifications, delete the number you entered in the “mobile” field and add it to the
“other” field. It is your responsibility to ensure your cellular phone information is accurate and up-todate.
Please Note: Only voice message notifications will be used to notify UMSO employees of office closure
or flexible start time due to inclement weather. You will need to enter your cellular phone number to
receive these messages. This system does not replace the inclement weather hotline at UMSO
(Shrewsbury Office Location Only).
Questions?
See FAQ or contact Jeffrey Hescock, Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Manager,
jhescock@umassp.edu or 774-455-7541.