What is HECM Alert?
HECM Alert is Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen's emergency notification system.
How is information distributed?
The Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen uses the HECM Alert emergency notification system to alert the campus community of possible emergency situations.
How will I be notified?
HECM Alert uses multiple notification methods to reach the campus community. For example, alerts are sent via text message, Texas A&M Email (Neo), Emergency Alert System (EAS) radios, computer alerts, classroom alerts, Twitter, and RSS.
How can I prepare?
An emergency is an unexpected serious situation demanding immediate action. There are many different types of emergencies that we may experience at Texas A&M. However, the Texas A&M Emergency webpage can help members of the campus community be better prepared for the unexpected, such as the 12th Man Emergency Playbook, or the Emergency Procedures webpage.
How do I receive HECM Alert notification if I'm a parent or a friend of the school?
Anyone can receive alerts by subscribing to the HECM Alert RSS feed or following @TAMUCM_McAllen on Twitter/X. For more information, visit the HECM Alert site.
Why do I receive HECM Alert before/after my friends?
HECM Alert messages are sent to cell phone carriers within minutes. The cell phone carriers then distribute the message per their individual priorities and protocols which are not controlled by the university.
If I am away from my phone, how will I know if a HECM Alert has been issued?
Text messages are only one way HECM Alert messages are sent. Other methods include email (Neo account), classroom speakers, desktop pop-ups, and emergency alert system (EAS) radios located in the building.
If a HECM Alert is issued, how will I know what to do or where to go?
HECM Alert messages are short and concise, due to the limited number of characters that may be sent via SMS text message (maximum 140 characters). In the event of an emergency, please refer to the Texas A&M Emergency webpagefor additional details and information.
What do I do if I live off campus?
In event there is a HECM Alert issued and you are off campus, check the Texas A&M Emergency website, stay alert for HECM Alerts, monitor local media outlets, and avoid the immediate area of the incident.
Who do I contact about developing a building/department specific Evacuation Plan or Continuity of Operations Plan?
For assistance with Building Evacuation Plans or Continuity of Operations Plans, please contact Fire & Life Safety or the Texas A&M Security Contacts.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN AN EMERGENCY?
- Be aware of your surroundings. Being aware of where you are and what is happening around you can help you to understand how information, events, and your own actions will impact your safety and your ability to protect yourself, both now and in the near future.
- Protect yourself. Based upon your assessment of the situation, use your best judgment to protect yourself and, if possible, others.
- Call for help. Any emergency service can be summoned by calling 911.
- Help others. Once you are safely away from the danger, warn others of the hazard and help if you can without putting yourself in danger.