Anyone who wishes to receive UVA Alerts via text can opt-in by texting “UVA” to 226787. This shortcode subscription service is available to anyone, anywhere.*
TEXT “UVA” TO 226787 TO RECEIVE ALERTS FROM UVA
Message and data rates may apply. Text messages are sent on an as-needed basis. This service is provided per the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Text STOP to 226787 to cancel or HELP for tech support.
The shortcode text alert service will remain active for 365 days. When the subscription expires, subscribers will receive a text inviting them to re-subscribe. You can stop at any time. Just reply “LEAVE UVA”, or "Stop" to any UVA Alert text message.
*This opt-in service is intended for members of the public. Students, faculty, and staff who have registered their mobile phone numbers with the University during Orientation or on-boarding will automatically receive a text alert.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What is UVA Alerts?
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UVA Alerts is the comprehensive mass notification system that deploys emergency messages to warn people of an imminent threat, and advises them on actions to take.
- What types of situations are emergency alerts issued for?
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Alerts provide important critical information about an ongoing threat to life and safety on the University Grounds and instructions for what to do. Types of emergencies include but are not limited to tornadoes, building fires, hazardous materials releases, and violent incidents.
- What will the UVA Alerts tell me?
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A short text message will state the type and location of the threat and the action you need to take. Because the messages must be brief, there may be additional information on the University's emergency page (uvaemergency.virginia.edu).
- Will my mobile phone number be kept confidential?
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Yes. UVA Alerts service mobile phone numbers are never shared or sold.
- How many UVA Alerts text messages will I receive?
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The exact number of UVA Alerts messages is difficult to predict, but the intention is to alert you only to emergency situations where there is an imminent threat to public safety. Occasionally, we will test the system.
- As a parent of a UVA student, can I sign up for UVA Alerts this way?
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Yes. Although your student could add your mobile number to his or her UVA Alert account, you can directly control your own subscription using this shortcode. You will receive exactly the same UVA Alerts.
- As a parent of a school child attending a UVA summer camp, can I get UVA Alerts?
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Yes. This tool is for you. Just text "UVA" to 226787.
- What are the designated short codes that might send UVA Alerts?
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Any of these shortcodes might be used when sending a UVA Alert: 226787, 67283, 78015, 77295 and 81437.
- Can I stop my subscription?
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You can stop at any time. Just reply “LEAVE UVA”, or "Stop" to any UVA Alert text message.
- Does my subscription ever expire?
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The shortcode text alert service will remain active for 365 days from registration. When your subscription has expired, you will receive a text reminding you to re-subscribe.
- Is there a cost?
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Although the University does not charge for this service, message and data rates may apply. Check with your provider. Landlines and some pay-as-you-go phones will not register on the UVA Alerts system. This is a limitation of the phone providers.
- Does UVA use other methods to communicate emergency information to the public?
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Yes. Text messaging is just one of the methods the University utilizes. Emergency details are also posted on the University's emergency page at uvaemergency.virginia.edu and tweeted on @UVA_EM, @HoosSafe and @UVAPolice.
Still need help? Please contact the UVA Help Desk.