As the University of Nevada, Reno is preparing to welcome students back to campus this fall, University Police Services is making sure they are ready to serve and protect the campus community.

"Safety is a strong commitment from this University to our students, faculty, staff and visitors," University Police Services Chief Todd Renwick said. "Testing our systems the way we do on a regular basis helps our coordinated response as a team."

During an all-systems test on Monday, Aug. 5, at 9 a.m., University Police Services will activate several campus safety platforms, including an outdoor notification system signaling an audible alert; an SMS text message; a campus-wide e-mail; posting to Twitter and Facebook; the department's AM information radio station 1670 KHz; and a scrolling banner on campus public computers.

The University's ability to notify and communicate to the campus in a swift and efficient manner in the wake of an emergency situation was on full display July 5, 2019, when an explosion in Argenta Hall damaged both Argenta and adjoining Nye Hall. The successful evacuation of Argenta Hall and the emergency procedures that were in place prior to the blast were praised by Nevada State Fire Marshal Bart Chambers, who said the University's emergency pre- and post-event emergency communication procedures are among the best in the country.

The outdoor notification system and information radio station has been paid for by a grant awarded to the University by the Division of Emergency Management, Homeland Security.

"As we work to strengthen law enforcement presence on campus, it is important for individuals to take charge of their personal safety and reach out to a friend and colleague and encourage them to do the same," Renwick continued. "Together, we can further the sense of community and culture of safety and preparedness at the University of Nevada, Reno."

For more information about safety programs, emergency procedures, tips, classes and training opportunities, visit www.unr.edu/police or call 775-784-4013.

For questions about this notification test, contact Interim Deputy Chief Eric James at ejames@unr.edu or 775-784-4013.