The Department of Public Safety is offering tips each week of National Preparedness Month. This week we look at tools to help stay informed in an emergency.
Your phone probably lets you know when a package arrives, a meeting is about to begin, or someone liked your photo. It can also deliver information that matters during a campus emergency.
For National Preparedness Month, take a few minutes to make sure you are connected to two important Boise State safety resources: BroncoAlert and Rave Guardian.
Know what is happening with BroncoAlert
BroncoAlert is Boise State’s emergency notification system. The Department of Public Safety uses it to share urgent information about emergencies or dangerous situations on or near campus.
Students, faculty, and staff receive alerts through their Boise State email accounts. BroncoAlert can also deliver time-sensitive messages by text, which may be easier to notice when you are away from your computer.
Make sure your mobile phone number is current:
- Faculty and staff can review their information in Bronco Hub.
- Students can review their information in Student Center.
Parents and guardians can also register to receive BroncoAlert messages on the BroncoAlert webpage. Registration should be renewed each semester.
When you receive a BroncoAlert, pause and read the entire message. Follow the instructions provided and continue watching for updates. An “all clear” will be sent when the emergency has been contained.
Put public safety in your pocket
Rave Guardian is Boise State’s free, optional mobile safety app for students, faculty, and staff with a Boise State email address.
Through the app, you can:
- Call 9-1-1 or the Department of Public Safety
- Send Public Safety a text or photo tip, with the option to remain anonymous
- Set a safety timer when traveling across campus or downtown
- Select a friend, family member, or Public Safety as your guardian
- Access emergency information and safety resources
If your timer expires before you check in, the app contacts the guardian you selected. Public Safety is notified only when you choose Public Safety as your guardian.
Rave Guardian does not continuously track your location. Location information is shared with Public Safety only when you request help, submit a tip without choosing anonymity, or allow a safety timer with Public Safety as your guardian to expire.
Take five minutes today
Check the phone number connected to your Boise State account (in BroncoHub if you are a staff or faculty member or in your Student Center if you are a student). Then download Rave Guardian, create or review your profile, and explore its features before you need them.
A safety tool is most useful when it is already set up, and you know how it works. Five minutes today can help you stay connected when every minute matters.