FSU ALERT Emergency Notification & Warning System
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the FSU ALERT Emergency Notification and Warning System.
Q: What is FSU ALERT?
FSU ALERT is the official emergency notification and warning system of Florida State University. In the event of a situation or condition, occurring or imminent, that poses an immediate threat to the health, safety, or general welfare of students, faculty, staff or visitors to the university, an FSU ALERT will be issued. The FSU ALERT emergency notification system uses multiple methods for disseminating emergency information. Learn everything you need to know about the FSU ALERT system by visiting: FSU ALERT Emergency Notification & Warning System.
Q Can I opt-out from FSU ALERT SMS/Text Messages?
Yes, Text "Stop FSU" or "STOP" to 888777 or email us at FSUPD-EOC@fsu.edu or by calling (850) 644-9111 with your name and the phone number you wish to be removed from FSU ALERT.
Q: Is it possible to opt-out of FSU ALERT Emails?
No. Because of the way the FSU ALERT system is tied into the MyFSU portal, There is no way to opt-out from FSU ALERT emails.
Q: If I register my cell phone number with FSU ALERT, will I get other kinds of spam?
No. The database of cell phone numbers provided for FSU ALERT are for emergency use only and will not be used for marketing or any other purpose without your prior explicit consent.
Q: What should I do when I receive an FSU ALERT?
In an effort to get a warning out as quickly as possible, initial FSU ALERT messages may be short or incomplete. Regardless of the alert, you should always: 1) Recognize that an emergency is occurring on campus. 2) Take the recommended actions identified in the alert messaging, such as sheltering or evacuating. 3) Seek more information from the Alerts Page, calling (850) 644-INFO (4636) or checking FSUAlert or KeepFSUSafe on Twitter.
Q: Does an FSU ALERT message mean that classes are cancelled or the university is closed?
The issuance of an FSU ALERT does not automatically indicate an alteration to the operational status of the university. You are advised to take the necessary temporary protective actions you need to ensure your safety. If you can proceed with your normal course of business under these conditions, you are expected to do so. If you cannot proceed with your normal course of business due to an alert, you are expected to do so once the alert has expired, been rescinded, or conditions allow. Any alteration to the operational status of the university, such as cancellations or closures, will be made explicitly in an independent message and posted at the top of the Alerts Page.
Q: Are absences due to an FSU ALERT excused?
Absence policies are set at the discretion of your professor or supervisor. Consult your syllabus, professor, supervisor or Dean for more information regarding attendance policies.
Q: How do I report errors during a test or activation?
If you detect an error during a test or activation (e.g. did not receive a text message), please contact FSU Emergency Management at FSUPD-EOC@fsu.edu.
Q: Why do emails sometimes take longer to receive than SMS Texts or other methods?
Due to the volume of emails being sent at a single time and FSU's cybersecurity measures, there may be some delay in email messages making it through FSU's email system. FSU ALERT has several notification methods for increased redundancy in the event any one method experiences any delay or failure. View a full list of our notification methods by visiting: FSU ALERT Emergency Notification & Warning System.
Q: I am graduating soon. What do I need to do to stop receiving FSU ALERT messages?
Our databases will detect that you are no longer a "student currently taking classes" and automatically stop sending you FSU ALERT messages via E-mail and SMS text within 60 days of graduation. However, you must manually unsubscribe yourself from Facebook, Twitter, the SeminoleSAFE App, RSS Feeds, or other delivery methods. If you were ever employed by the University at any time, you may want to double check and make sure you are not registered that way. You will have to manually remove any employee registration. Learn More >>
Q: How do I add or edit my phone number from FSU ALERT SMS text messaging?
Current students, faculty, staff and other university employees can manage their SMS text message settings in the FSU ALERT system. Learn More >>
Q: I have no affiliation with FSU whatsoever or have opted out, but still receive FSU ALERT SMS text messages on my phone. How do I make it stop?
There are times when people unaffiliated with the University receive our FSU ALERT SMS text messages on their phone. This sometimes is the result of getting a new phone number that was previously assigned to one of our students, faculty or staff. More likely, however, someone who registered for our alert service mistyped the number. For example, area code 407 for the Orlando area could be accidentally entered as 704 from Charlotte, NC. To opt-out of FSU ALERTS, text "Stop FSU" to 888777 or contact us at FSUPD-EOC@fsu.edu or by calling (850) 644-9111 with your name and phone number you wished to be removed.
Q: I am a parent or family member of a current student, can I get alerts on my phone too?
Due to technological limitations, we are unable to send E-mails or SMS text messages directly to anyone who is not a current student or employee; however, you are welcome to follow or like @FSUAlert on Twitter and Facebook or download our app, SeminoleSAFE, which receives all of our Emergency Alerts. Learn More >>
Q: How do I know if the text message I received is legitimate, and not just someone pranking me?
All official FSU ALERT emergency notification text messages come from the short code 89361 and will clearly say "*FSU ALERT*". Add this number to your address book or contact directory; however, do note that numerous other institutions (ex: FAMU, TCC, UF, etc.) may use the same text messaging vendor we use. So, if you are registered to multiple systems, make sure you verify who is sending you the text message. All FSU ALERT emergency notification messages will clearly say "*FSU ALERT*" and will also be posted at http://alerts.fsu.edu.
