Campus Safety
About Emergency Notification System (ENS)
CWU has established an Emergency Notification System (ENS) which provides multiple notice methods to alert individuals about situations that may pose a substantial threat to our community.
Campus safety is a vital concern at Central Washington University. The current components of the CWU ENS include website and desktop alerts, email alert updates, voice mail notification, text messaging, and public address systems (PA's) in police vehicles and designated buildings. In addition, CWU also has Emergency Blue Light phones located throughout campus and information available to the community regarding personal responses instructions should an emergency occur.
Staying Informed During Emergencies
The safety and well-being of our students, employees, visitors, and campus partners is a shared responsibility. Central Washington University maintains a comprehensive Emergency Notification System (ENS) designed to provide timely, accurate, and actionable information during emergencies and other significant incidents that may affect the campus community.
Because no single communication method reaches everyone in every situation, CWU uses multiple, overlapping notification tools to ensure important information is delivered as quickly and reliably as possible.
CWU Emergency Notification Methods
Depending on the nature of the incident, emergency information may be distributed through:
- CWU Alert emergency notifications
- University email messages
- Text messages and telephone notifications
- Desktop and web-based alerts
- The CWU Emergency Notification website
- Rave Guardian mobile application
- Building public address systems
- Public safety vehicle loudspeaker announcements
- Campus emergency phones and other safety resources
These systems work together to provide clear instructions and situational updates during emergencies, helping individuals make informed decisions to protect themselves and others.
CWU Alert
CWU Alert is the university's primary emergency notification system for students and employees.
The system is used when an incident poses an immediate or significant threat to the health, safety, or operations of the university community. Examples may include severe weather, hazardous materials incidents, campus closures, active threats, major utility disruptions, or other emergencies requiring immediate action.
CWU Alert messages may be delivered through:
- Text message (SMS)
- Voice call
All students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled using their university contact information. Because emergency situations can evolve rapidly, recipients should carefully read all CWU Alert messages and follow the instructions provided.
While emergency notifications provide critical information, personal awareness and sound judgment remain essential during any emergency.
Visitors, Guests, and Family Members
CWU Alert is primarily designed for students and employees; however, visitors, guests, contractors, event attendees, and family members may also have options to receive emergency information.
For select events, conferences, camps, and university programs, participants may be offered temporary enrollment in emergency notifications for the duration of the event, whether for a single day or an extended period.
Community members and visitors are also encouraged to Text: CWUDaily to 226787 for Daily Opt-In (Expires after 1 day). Contact CWU Events for Long Term opt-In option.
to access campus safety resources and receive eligible emergency notifications while on campus.
Students and employees may add additional phone numbers to their notification profiles, allowing emergency messages to be delivered to designated family members, guardians, caregivers, or other trusted contacts.
Keeping contact information current helps ensure important emergency information reaches the right people when it matters most.
Rave Guardian Mobile App
The Rave Guardian app enhances personal safety and emergency preparedness by connecting users directly to CWU emergency notification services and campus safety resources.
All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to download and activate the free Rave Guardian app on their mobile devices.
Key Features
Emergency Alerts
Receive official CWU emergency notifications, including over Wi-Fi when cellular service may be limited.
Safety Timer
Set a timer when walking across campus or traveling alone. Designated contacts can be notified if you fail to check in as expected.
Guardian Network
Create a trusted network of family members, friends, or colleagues who can monitor your safety status when requested.
Campus Resources
Quick access to important campus safety and support services.
Emergency Calling
One-touch access to 9-1-1 during emergencies.
Travel Information
Direct access to Washington State travel and roadway information.
Download Rave Guardian
The Rave Guardian app is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
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