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Emergency Management

Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

Brigham Young University is committed to the safety and well‑being of every student. Parents and students are encouraged to review these resources together to ensure expectations are clear before an emergency occurs.

  • BYU uses Y‑Alert!, the university’s official emergency notification system, to quickly communicate with students, faculty, and staff during emergencies. Y‑Alert! messages are primarily delivered by text message and include time‑sensitive information and instructions to guide student actions.

    Where to learn more:

  • No. Only current BYU employees and students can receive Y-Alerts. However, during an emergency, Y-Alerts and official university updates will be published on the BYU.edu website.

    Where to learn more:

  • The most reliable sources of information during an emergency are byu.edu and official BYU communication channels. Updates are shared through these channels as information becomes available.

    Because BYU phone lines may experience high call volumes during emergencies, parents are encouraged to rely on official updates first and avoid calling unless it is urgent.

  • Students should:

    • Follow the instructions from law enforcement or other first responders.
    • Follow all instructions provided through Y‑Alert!.
    • Use their best judgment based on what they know, prioritizing personal safety and the safety of others.

  • BYU Emergency Management provides an Emergency Response Guide that outlines recommended actions for different emergency situations. Students are strongly encouraged to review this guide ahead of time so they are better prepared to make informed decisions during stressful or rapidly changing situations.

    Where to learn more:

  • Yes. Having emergency supplies is an important part of being prepared on campus. Parents can support their student by encouraging them to have simple items available and by reviewing BYU’s recommended preparedness resources together.

    A basic emergency kit might include items like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, a phone charger and power bank, necessary medications, cash, and a simple first aid kit. These simple items can help students stay safe and self-sufficient during the first hours of an emergency.

    Learn more about recommended supplies by visiting the BYU Preparedness Resources page.

  • BYU Emergency Management supports student preparedness through trainings, campus outreach booths, and resources shared on its website and official Instagram account.

    Students are encouraged to learn from the resources on the Emergency Management website and to follow BYU Emergency Management on Instagram for safety and preparedness information.

    Where to learn more:

  • Yes. Across campus, BYU provides Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and Bleeding Control Kits. AEDs are used during cardiac emergencies, and Bleeding Control Kits are designed to help control life‑threatening bleeding until professional help arrives.

    BYU also offers CPR and AED training classes, allowing students to learn basic life‑saving skills in a short, hands‑on format.

    Where to learn more:

  • BYU encourages students to be aware of their surroundings and report situations that don’t feel right. Trusting instincts and reporting concerns helps keep the campus safe.

    If there is immediate danger
    Call 911 immediately if someone is in danger, a crime is happening, or someone could be harmed.

    See Something, Send Something
    If unable to text or for non-emergency concerns, students can use the See Something, Send Something feature in the BYU Mobile App to report information directly to BYU Security. This feature is monitored 24/7 by BYU Security.

    How to use this resource:

    1. Open the BYU Mobile App.
    2. Search for “See Something, Send Something”.
    3. Select the feature.
    4. Provide details (location, time, description).
    5. Submit the report.
      • Photos may be included if it is safe to do so.

    When to use it (non‑emergencies):

    • Threatening or concerning behavior.
    • Suspicious or unattended items.
    • General safety or security concerns on campus.
    • If unable to call.

    Learn more:

  • SafeWalk is a safety feature in the BYU Mobile App Suite that allows students to share their location with BYU Security while walking on campus. During an active SafeWalk session, BYU Security can monitor the student’s movement and respond if assistance is needed. SafeWalk also allows students to quickly call for help.

    Students may also request a security escort if they feel unsafe while walking on campus. Escorts can be requested by contacting BYU Security at 801-422-2222.

    Where to learn more:

If you have further questions, please reach out to emergency-mgmt@byu.edu.