Category: Alerts

Formerly known as CU Safe Alerts, Clemson’s emergency notifications will now be called CU Alerts. The name change allows more efficient use of space within the 160-character limit text messages and allows recipients to see more of the emergency information in the preview window. All future alerts will feature the new name, including January’s monthly test.

If you do not currently receive text message alerts or have questions about emergency notifications, visit the emergency notifications page on the Clemson University Emergency Management website for instructions on how to sign up and more information.

Clemson University Police Department (CUPD) received this evening, April 6, false reports of armed individuals in the vicinity of Cooper Library and Cribb Hall. The situation is normal and everything is clear in both areas of main campus.

CUPD is investigating the origin of the calls, which were transferred from Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) to departmental dispatch. The reports are believed to be attempts at swatting — harassment tactics aimed at deceiving emergency services.

Clemson University Public Safety is aware of the active threat calls received by several school districts across the state today. CUPD is engaged with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) who is investigating the calls that have been deemed to be hoax calls.

While these current calls have been classified as hoaxes, it is important that each of us remain vigilant and treat each call as a serious matter. If you receive a threatening call, remember to:

• Remain calm.
• Keep the caller on the line as long as possible.
• Listen carefully. Note the time of call and telephone number displayed if you have caller ID.

Ask the caller the following questions:

• Where is the threat?
• When will the event occur?
• What does the person look like?
• Do you have a connection to the threat?
• What is your name?
• Are you an employee?
• Where are you calling from?

Write down any pertinent information such as background noises, gender of caller and voice pitches and patterns.

Call 911 immediately to notify the CUPD or your local Dispatch Center.

If you have any information about today’s threats, or if you have any questions, please call the CUPD Dispatch Center at 864-656-2222.

Thank you,
Clemson University Public Safety

Clemson University Police Department (CUPD) has arrested a student for posting threatening messages on social media. The student is currently being held on a surety bond at the Pickens County Jail.

CUPD has determined there is no ongoing threat to the community.

Clemson officials are monitoring the weather anticipated to impact University locations statewide. This system includes the possibility for damaging winds, hail and tornadoes. It is important to prepare for severe weather before needing to take action.

WATCHES AND WARNINGS

What to look and listen for:

• A severe thunderstorm watch means severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area.
• A severe thunderstorm warning means severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar.
• A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for a tornado and is issued several hours before the event.
• A tornado warning means a tornado is occurring, imminent or likely and is effective immediately once issued.

If a tornado warning is issued, Clemson University will notify the campus community via text, email, social media and campus sirens. Follow @ClemsonSafety on Twitter and sign up for CU SAFE ALERTS to receive timely updates.

Visit www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning for more information on weather preparedness.