The best way to contact Campus Safety Services (CSS) in the event of an emergency is through direct communication. 24 hours a day, members of the Brock community can reach CSS directly at 905-688-5550, extensions 3200 (for emergencies) and/or 4300 (for routine calls) to speak with staff. In addition, everyone is encouraged to download the Brock Safety App on their smartphones, as it has a number of useful features including ready access to emergency contacts.

In classrooms and large meeting rooms, when no other means is available, it is possible to send an emergency alert to CSS from the lectern computer. This action would notify CSS that there was an issue, though the nature of the issue would remain unknown until further communication is possible. As a result, this should be used as a last resort when it is not possible to place a call or otherwise contact CSS.

How it works

The computers that are integrated into the lecterns in classrooms, lecture halls, and larger meeting rooms are equipped with a taskbar notification icon. The icon or button can be found by clicking the chevron on the right of the taskbar – in much the same way one would find the icon to safety eject a USB drive, revealing the hidden icons.

The above image shows hidden taskbar icons, including the taskbar notification icon (see the red arrow in the diagram). All network computers will have this icon, as it plays a role in receiving mass messaging issued by CSS. Only those lecterns in classrooms, lecture halls, and larger meeting rooms have the ability to send a message to CSS that identifies both the location of the device and name of the person logged on.

In the event of an emergency and there is no other means to contact CSS or emergency services, a message can be sent by clicking this icon three times in rapid succession. Upon successful activation, the user will receive feedback on their screen. Instantly, CSS will receive an alert message that identifies the lectern from which the alert was initiated, its location, and the name of the person logged on to the device at that time. The CSS response may include a follow-up call, CCTV observation, and/or a physical response to the area.

Important notes:

• The best method to obtain assistance in the event of an emergency is through direct contact. Police/Ambulance/Fire can be contacted by calling 911. CSS can be contacted at extension 3200 (for emergencies) or 4300 (for routine calls). The use of the notification tool described above should only be an option when no other means of contact is available.
• Although currently ‘live’ on network computers, this tool is not currently suitable for use on office desktops as device location information is not reliable in all cases. This tool is not suitable for use on any laptop or mobile device for similar reasons.