What are emergency messages and when will I receive them?
RCBC utilizes a multi-modal communication service, to deliver time-sensitive notifications to students and staff. This system provides campus leaders and public safety professionals the ability to reach all students and staff with information and updates within minutes during unforeseen events or emergencies via phone calls, text messages, and emails.
In today's uncertain world it is best to take precautionary safety measures. We hope we never have to implement the system because of an emergency, however, the safety and security of our students and staff comes first and it is important to be prepared.
The communication system enables campus administrators to schedule, send, and track personalized voice messages to up to six phone numbers per person and immediately send messages via four different modes of communication including text messages, e-mails, and messages to TTY/TDD receiving devices for the hearing impaired. Notifying all students and staff immediately is crucial to keeping everyone safe and off-campus in case of emergencies.
Telephone messages, using the primary listed phone number, will also be sent to remind students about deadlines for registration, dropping or adding classes and paying bills. Emails and primary phone numbers will also be used for general outreach such as the announcement of college events.
How does RCBC handle the snow?
We do everything possible to make sure students can arrive to campus safely and appreciate your patience during the winter months.
Who decides?
An emergency management committee consisting of several departments such as Public Safety, Operations, Logistics, Academics and Communications, discusses the forecast several times leading up to the storm – often late at night and early into the morning.
When will decisions be made?
Each storm is different. We make every effort to wait as long as possible to announce a closure to make sure we have the most current and accurate information. Of course, the safety of our students, faculty and staff is our top concern. We aim to announce a closure at least two hours before classes begin. Always check rcbc.edu before heading to campus during inclement weather.
What factors are considered?
We use a variety of data besides our ability to clear the campus including:
- Weather forecasts
- Emergency management reports
- Conditions of local roads and communities
- While we consider the decisions of local schools, government agencies and colleges, we make our decision independently.
How will I be notified?
Once the college president authorizes a closure or delayed opening, announcements will be posted in a number of ways including on the college’s website, phone, email and texts to the college community, local media and the college’s social media platforms. Please make sure your contacts are up-to-date in Self-Service.
Does everyone stay home during a closure?
Essential personnel, chiefly Public Safety and Facilities, report to work regardless of the weather to ensure the campus is cleared and safe when the weather improves.
How can I update my emergency contact information?
Students and staff can update their emergency contact information directly from their Self-Service account.
- Log into BaronOne.
- Click the Self-Service tile.
- Click the User Options icon from the left-hand menu.
- Click the User Profile from the drop down menu.
- Add/edit/remove the desired contact phone number.