Queen’s is introducing regular testing of its SeQure cellphone “push” notification system, to ensure the app remains active on SeQure users’ phones and will receive alerts in the event of an emergency.

The testing is part of the university’s ongoing commitment to campus safety and part of its Campus Safety and Security Initiative,

The SeQure app is designed to be able to send SeQure users proactive warnings should an emergency occur on campus. Users of the app must opt-in through the “about/preferences” icon to receive the messages.

Some phone operating systems hibernate or offload apps that are not used frequently. Regular testing will help reduce the likelihood an app could be turned off when it might be needed most.

As part of the test, users that opt in to receive push messages will receive a test message to keep the app active. The first test will take place on Monday, Sept. 25, and repeat every third Monday of the month after that. The test message will read:

This is a TEST

This is a TEST of the SeQure app push notification function. No action is required. In the event of an actual emergency the notification message will provide you with directions. Thank you.

If your phone has deactivated your SeQure app, or if you are unsure of the status of your SeQure app, you are encouraged to re-load it.

SeQure is a mobile safety app developed for the Queen's Community. It provides quick access to Campus Security and Emergency Services resources, including the campus security emergency line, and student government services such as AMS Walkhome. It also provides tips, information, and tools to help the Queen's community further enhance their security.  By enabling “Push Notifications” you will receive important information regarding campus emergencies, as available.

The university has several channels to communicate with students, faculty, and staff in an emergency including:   

• Queen's homepage: queensu.ca
• Queen’s mobile safety app SeQure: queensu.ca/risk/security/sequre-app
• Queen’s email accounts
• The Emergency Notification System (public address system)
• University phone status line: 613-533-3333
• Queen’s Campus Security and Emergency Services X (Twitter) feed twitter.com/CampusSecurity and other university social media channels as appropriate

For more information on emergency procedures, please visit the Emergency Response Procedures website.