VIU uses three systems to deliver information during emergencies. Collectively known as mass notification systems, these tools are designed to rapidly communicate critical information and alert large groups of people about emergencies, campus closures and other significant situations.
Depending on the nature, severity and location of an incident, one or more of these systems may be used to share updates and instructions. Not every emergency requires all notification systems to be activated. VIU selects the most appropriate communication channels to ensure timely and effective communication with those affected.
Communicating during emergencies
VIU Safety App
The VIU Safety App is available free through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app provides access to current safety information, emergency procedures and campus resources. See How to get the Safety App.
During emergencies, the app's push notification feature is used to send critical, time-sensitive alerts in real time to users who have enabled notifications.
Public Address and Voice Alarm
The Public Address and Voice Alarm system uses speakers located throughout buildings to broadcast emergency messages. Messages can be delivered to individual buildings, multiple buildings or all buildings simultaneously on the Nanaimo campus and in Student Housing.
Alertus
Alertus sends desktop alerts to computer users connected to the VIU network. These alerts distribute critical, time-sensitive emergency information by displaying a prominent notification on computer screens.
Note: Alertus desktop notifications are currently available only on supported Windows devices connected to the VIU network. Mac devices are not currently supported.
Frequently asked questions
VIU uses its mass notification systems when critical information or instructions need to be communicated quickly to a large group of people during an emergency. This may include situations that pose a risk to personal safety, could damage infrastructure, or significantly disrupt university operations.
VIU uses a combination of the VIU Safety App, Public Address and Voice Alarm System, and Alertus desktop notifications to communicate emergency information. Depending on the situation, messages may also be shared through the VIU website, email, and official social media channels.
No. Some incidents are localized, short in duration, or do not pose a significant risk to people or university operations. In these cases, VIU may use targeted communications or operational updates rather than activating mass notification systems.
No, however, the VIU Safety App is VIU's primary mobile emergency notification tool and is the best way to receive real-time emergency alerts on your personal device. While some emergency messages may be communicated through other systems, downloading the app ensures you receive the widest range of safety and emergency notifications.
Not every incident requires all mass notification systems to be activated. VIU selects the most appropriate communication channels based on the nature, severity, and location of the incident.
To ensure you receive push notifications when they are issued, download the VIU Safety App and enable push notifications. Review the troubleshooting document, if issues persist.
Please visit , VIU Information Technology for assistance with Alertus.
Listen or read the message carefully and follow any instructions provided. These may include evacuating a building, sheltering in place, avoiding a specific area, or taking other protective actions. Continue to monitor official VIU communication channels for updates.
If there is an immediate risk to public safety or a significant disruption to university operations. Examples include:
- Fire or explosions
- Gas leaks
- Security
- Major utility outages
- Severe weather events
- Campus closures
How to get the Safety App
- Download from the iTunes store for iPhones
- Download from Google play for Android devices
Already have the app? Make sure it's up to date.
Follow these instructions:
- Open the VIU Safety App
- Click on the VIU logo in the upper left corner of the screen
- Click on the “Updates available” message that appears at the bottom of the page when you click on the logo
- Update complete!
- If no message appears, that means your app is up to date.
Or you can:
- Click on the “About/Preferences” button at the bottom of the main screen.
- Click on “Data Update”
- Click on “Check for Updates”
- Follow the instructions on the screen that pops up
- Update complete!