Quick Reference Guide to Emergency Measures
Ensuring the safety and security of all students, faculty and staff is a top priority for the School of Biomedical Sciences and McGill University. We encourage you to review the comprehensive emergency management programs in place at the University in preparation for any emergencies or disruptions. The information below serves as a guide to help you get started.
Primary Security Contacts
Security Services offer 24/7 assistance to all members of the McGill community.
- For potential emergencies or prevention: Call Security at 514-398-3000 (downtown) or 514-398-7777 (Macdonald).
- For emergencies: Call 9-1-1. If possible, also call Security at the appropriate number above.
- For less urgent situations: Email campus.security [at] mcgill.ca (downtown) or macdonald.security [at] mcgill.ca (Macdonald).
Emergency Notification Systems
McGill has an emergency notification system; community members can receive alerts by email, text message, and/or desktop Alertus software.
This service keeps the McGill community up to date on developments such as school closures, weather-related events, power outages, or situations that may affect the safety and security of its members.
Email | All current students, faculty and staff members are automatically set up to receive email alerts from alert [at] mcgill.ca and mcgill.communications [at] mcgill.ca senders.
Text Messages | To receive SMS notifications from McGill’s Emergency Notification System, you MUST opt in by providing a mobile number (North American only) via Minerva (Personal Menu > Mobile Devices).
Desktop | McGill computers may have the Alertus software already installed. If not, consult the IT webpage for download and installation.
Further instructions relating to notifications can be found here.
Campus Status updates (i.e., conditions relating to campus/building access, classes, remote work, etc.) are also posted here.
Suspicious Emails
Contact the IT Service Desk via chat, ticket or phone call. To report an urgent issue call 514-398-3398 for immediate help.
Detailed instructions can be found on the IT website.
Other Key Resources and Helpful Links
Emergency Procedures and Protocols (categorized by emergency type)
Active Threat/Shooter Protocol
Responding to Disruptions in “Off-Hours” Teaching Activities(e.g. Evening Mid-Term Exams and In-Department Exams) (PDF from Faculty of Science)
To request training for your unit: Emergency Management 101
If you find yourself struggling, please remember that these McGill resources are here for you:
- Wellness Hub (for students)
- Employee and Family Assistance Program (for faculty and staff)
- Office for Mediation and Reporting (for all: for inquiries or to report incidents of sexual violence, harassment, and/or discrimination)