From incident to UPenn alert: a hypothetical scenario

The DP takes a look at a hypothetical situation to understand the UPennAlert decision process. While the above incident is a “clear-cut” example of process, the decision to send an alert is not always easy.

In the event of a crime, the decision is based on timeliness and accuracy of the potential alert. For example, if the individual is apprehended minutes after the incident or if information about the event is inaccurate, DPS would not send the alert. Penn Police and AlliedBarton Security secure and investigate the area regardless of whether or not DPS issues an alert.

Hurricane Sandy was an example of a scenario that required careful deliberation by the Crisis Management Team on whether to issue an alert. Though the system is typically used in the event of a crime, DPS issued four UPennAlerts between Sunday and Tuesday, notifying students of cancellations and providing helpful resources.

According to Rush, “[DPS] is very mindful of how we use [UPennAlert.]” During Hurricane Sandy, Rush said DPS had to actively circulate information about the risks the storm posed. It was the collective decision of the Crisis Management Team, including Craig Carnaroli, Vincent Price and Maureen Rush, to utilize UPennAlert during the hurricane.