Emergency Management

Weather Alert Notification: Communication Methods

When adverse weather conditions affect the routine operation of the University, the primary communication methods for announcements regarding class cancellations, delayed openings, and/or University closings will be initiated from the WCU Official Weather Notification account as follows:

1. Posted on WCU's homepage

The most up-to-date and specific information, including any changes as the weather develops, event cancellations or postponements, or any changes to the final exam schedule will be posted on the WCU homepage.

2. Text message to WCU Alert subscribers

West Chester University offers a text messaging subscription service for all faculty, staff, and students to receive notifications of class delays or cancellations due to weather. While there is no cost to subscribe, some cell phone providers may apply a small cost per text message sent or received. Subscribers will receive text messages on any device that accepts text messaging (SMS) through cellular service, such as cell phones, text pagers, and some wireless PDAs. In addition, there is an option to have messages sent to a personal email address.

Of equal importance, this text messaging service is used to warn the campus of major emergencies and/or safety threats.

Subscribe to receive text messages of weather-related cancellations or delays.

3. Mass emails to faculty, staff and students via WCU-assigned email

All WCU faculty, staff and students must activate and maintain regular access to University-provided electronic email accounts. Departments that supervise employees with limited or unavailable computer resources are responsible to provide alternative notification systems for these employees and/or students.

4. Recorded message on WCU's Information Line (610-436-1000)

However, the WCU homepage will always carry the most updated information as the weather event unfolds or as information is posted regarding cancellation/postponement of events.

5. Broadcast on many radio stations and websites

Below is a listing of the radio stations that will be contacted should the University need to announce a closing or delayed opening due to weather. Some radio stations utilize a system of code numbers keyed to affected schools for cancellations and announcements. West Chester University's code number and applicable prefix are: 853 for cancellation of day classes and 2853 for evening classes.

Because the radio stations are generally not able to provide detailed information, the most accurate and detailed information will be maintained on the WCU's homepage.