UVA Alerts is the comprehensive mass notification system that deploys urgent emergency messages to warn people of a threat on Grounds and provide instructions for what to do.

Starting today, anyone who wishes to receive official UVA Alerts via text message may now opt in by texting “UVA” to 226787. This shortcode subscription service is available to anyone, anywhere. Previously, the alerts were sent to UVA students, faculty and staff.

The types of emergencies for which an alert would be issued include, but are not limited to, tornadoes, building fires, hazardous materials releases and violent incidents. Alerts are sent for emergencies in both the academic division and UVA Health.

“This first-ever public opt-in to UVA’s text alert platform will provide family members, friends, neighbors and visitors with text alerts during an emergency on UVA Grounds in Charlottesville,” said John DeSilva, director of UVA Emergency Management. “In any emergency, having access to accurate and timely information is critical. UVA recognizes that our community extends beyond Grounds, and that everyone benefits by receiving consistent emergency information at the same time, in order to take actions to stay safe.” 

The shortcode text alert service will remain active for 365 days from registration. When their subscription expires, subscribers will receive a text reminder inviting them to re-subscribe. To stop receiving texts at any time, subscribers should reply “LEAVE UVA” to 226787. The University does not charge for this service, but message and data rates by providers may apply. 

The UVA Alerts text messaging service is just one of the methods the University utilizes to communicate emergency information to the public. Emergency details will be posted on the University’s emergency page at uvaemergency.virginia.edu. Alerts and information will also be tweeted on @UVA_EM and @UVAPolice. 

UVA faculty, staff and students who want to receive text messages should continue to add mobile numbers to their UVA Alerts account.    

For more information and FAQs, click here or contact the Office of Emergency Management at uvaem@virginia.edu.