Frequently Asked Questions
About the SF State Emergency Notification System
Note:
It is mandatory for all SFSU email holders to receive emails and notifications from the university in the event of any emergency. It is important to note that any phone number linked to your campus email will also receive alerts from SF State Alert. Therefore, please use a phone number that you do not mind receiving notifications on. Your cooperation in joining this mass notification system and understanding the significance of being informed is greatly appreciated.
Q: What is SF State Alert?
The San Francisco State University Emergency Notification System, also known as SF State Alert, is a communications tool designed to rapidly disseminate emergency information and instructions in an emergency that threatens the lives and/or property of the campus community.
Q: Why have alert systems when we already have alarms in campus buildings?
While alarms are an effective way to evacuate a building, other types of emergencies, such as an active shooter incident, may require people to shelter-in-place. The best way to notify the campus in this type of situation is through a mass notification system.
Q: How do I opt-in for SF State Alert? How do I opt-out of SF State Alert?
If you choose to opt-in, it is critical that you make sure your personal contact information is up-to-date.
For Students who wish to opt-in, please follow the below steps:
- Open the Student Center
- Navigate to the Personal Information section (bottom of Student Center)
- Select an option from the Phone Numbers drop-down box: Addresses, Email Addresses, Phone Numbers
- Click the Go button (double arrow)
- Click on "Add a Phone Number" button
- Select "Mobile Text" and enter your cell phone number to opt-in
- Save changes
For Faculty and Staff members who wish to opt-in, please follow the below steps:
- Navigate to HR Self-Service under the Gateway Launchpad
- Navigate to the My Personal Information section
- Select My Phone Number(s)
- Click on "Add a Phone Number" button
- Select "Mobile Text" and enter your cell phone number to opt-in
- Select “Preferred”
- Save changes
If you decide to opt out of phone notifications, it won't affect your subscription to the mass notification system through your campus email. If you wish to discontinue receiving notifications on your current phone number, all you need to do is modify your settings and choose a different phone number to receive notifications.
Q: How often are these “tests” going to happen?
Testing of the Emergency Notification System and evacuation will be done at least once annually. The tests may be announced or unannounced to ensure that new students, faculty, and staff will have the opportunity to become familiar with the process and fully participate. An e-mail notice will be sent several days in advance of each announced test to allow people to update their contact information and to avoid any undue alarm.