Keep emergency contact info current

FROM RICE NEWS STAFF REPORTS

“Last week’s shooting at Virginia Tech was an unfortunate reminder that universities sometimes have a need to issue urgent communications to students, staff and faculty,” said Kevin Kirby, chair of Rice University’s Crisis Management Team.

In a campuswide email, Kirby reminded students, staff and faculty to go to their ESTHER account to make sure the contact information listed on their Emergency Notification System page is current.

“This will ensure that if we ever need to alert you about a dangerous situation on campus, a major storm or some other potential threat to your safety and well-being, we will be able to reach you via cell phone or email,” Kirby said.

Employees and students who don’t know the PIN for their account at esther.rice.edu can use the “Forgot PIN” feature; employees can also send an email to people@rice.edu for help with their PIN; students can request help with their PIN at registrar@rice.edu.

All personal contact information is kept confidential. Faculty and staff with questions about how to fill out the emergency notification form can contact Human Resources at 713-348-2514. Students can contact the Office of the Registrar at 713-348-4999.

Anyone who does not want Rice to contact them during an emergency can check the “opt out” box at the bottom of the Emergency Notification System form, but this may prevent them from getting critical notices, including campus closings. State law requires that students and employees renew this option at the start of every academic year if they want to continue to not participate in the emergency alert system. “We hope, however, that you will take part in the system and help us help you remain safe,” Kirby said.