Queen’s University conducted a live test of its emergency notification system in downtown Kingston, testing the effectiveness of the system in alerting the campus community during an emergency. The test featured chimes followed by a pre-recorded message instructing individuals to “shelter in place,” concluding with sirens. The purpose of the test was to assess how well the alert could be heard outdoors in a normal ambient environment. The university’s emergency notification system includes outdoor speakers installed on various buildings across the campus, allowing for the broadcast of sirens and pre-recorded messages to alert individuals during an emergency.
The notice posted on the school’s website prior to the test informed the campus community about the planned test and its purpose. The Emergency Notification System (ENS) is a critical tool for Campus Security and Emergency Services to broadcast important alerts during emergency situations. In an actual emergency, the system uses siren signals followed by voice instructions to inform the campus community about the nature of the emergency and provide safety instructions. Additionally, the system advises individuals to check other communications channels for further information and instructions, ensuring that everyone receives timely updates and guidance during a crisis.
The ENS at Queen’s University plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the campus community by providing timely alerts and instructions during emergencies. The outdoor speakers installed on various buildings on the main and west campus allow for efficient communication of important information to individuals both indoors and outdoors. By conducting live tests like the one witnessed in downtown Kingston, the university can assess the effectiveness of its emergency notification system and make necessary upgrades to improve its performance in real-life emergency scenarios.
During the test, the campus community experienced the test chimes, pre-recorded message, and sirens that would be used in a real emergency situation. This allowed individuals to familiarize themselves with the alerts and instructions provided by the system, ensuring that everyone knows how to respond appropriately in case of an emergency. The test also provided valuable data for the staff to evaluate the effectiveness of the alert in different outdoor environments and make adjustments as needed to enhance the overall functionality of the ENS on campus.
Overall, the live test of Queen’s University’s Emergency Notification System served as an important exercise to evaluate the system’s capabilities and readiness in alerting the campus community during emergencies. By conducting tests and making continuous improvements to the system, the university can ensure that individuals are alerted promptly and provided with essential information and instructions to stay safe in various emergency situations. The test was a part of the planned upgrades to the ENS, highlighting the university’s commitment to enhancing campus safety and security through effective emergency communication systems.
