What is Eastern Alert?
Eastern Alert is the university’s emergency notification system, powered by Everbridge. It delivers timely alerts via text, email, phone, and other methods during critical situations affecting the campus community.
Who is enrolled?
All current students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled using their Eastern email address. You can customize how you receive alerts by logging into the Eastern Alert portal.
What types of emergencies are covered?
Eastern Alert is used for major university-wide incidents, such as:
Campus closures (e.g. snow days)
Severe weather (e.g. hurricanes or tornadoes)
Fire or hazardous material emergencies
Safety/security threats
Evacuation or lockdown alerts
More localized events (e.g. a fire alarm in one building) will be communicated through other means such as email or PA systems.
How will I recognize a message from Eastern Alert?
Messages will begin with:
“EASTERN ALERT”, followed by a brief, clear message.
Examples:
Eastern Alert. Eastern is closed today (date). Essential staff should report.
Eastern Alert. A campus-wide lockdown has been issued. Seek shelter immediately.
Eastern Alert. Evacuate (location) immediately.
What devices can receive alerts?
You can register:
Cell phones (text and/or voice)
Landline phones
Email addresses
TTY-enabled devices
Can my family receive alerts?
Yes. You may add your parent or guardian’s phone number or email address to your Everbridge profile. Please note that Eastern Alert is a closed system—only those with a connection to the university may be added manually.
Are there any costs?
Enrollment is free. However, depending on your phone plan, standard charges may apply for receiving texts or voice messages.
How is my privacy protected?
Your contact information is stored securely by Everbridge and will never be sold or shared. Only authorized University personnel can access this information.
How do I update my contact preferences?
You are responsible for managing your contact preferences. Visit Eastern Alert Preferences to:
Add or remove phone numbers or email addresses
Choose your preferred notification methods
Keep your contact info up to date
Will there be tests of the system?
Yes. The university conducts periodic tests (At least one per semester). You may be notified in advance, and test messages will be clearly marked.
What happens after I leave Eastern?
When you are no longer affiliated with the university, your Eastern Alert account will be deactivated automatically. You can remove non-Eastern contacts (such as your cell phone) at any time.
Need help?
For questions or assistance with your Eastern Alert account, contact:
easternalerts@easternct.edu
(860) 465-5735
Also available:
Weather Hotline: (860) 465-4444 or toll-free (800) 578-1449
During storms, updates are posted daily at 6:30 AM (day schedule) and 2:00 PM (evening schedule), or as needed.