Dec. 5, 2002

Getting Good Information About Bad Weather

Web Sites, Phone Numbers Accessible for Latest Information

By Thomas Kohout

When Washington has had its first hard frost of the season, and the minds of children and adults alike drift toward thoughts of holiday treats, it can mean only one thing — inclement weather could be only a seven-day forecast away. If the skies turn gray and the sleet and snow start to fall, University officials would like faculty and staff to remember to tune in to local radio and television stations, call the GW information line, 202/994-5050, or logon to the Internet to check the University’s status.

The 5050 telephone number is for University employees and students in the DC metropolitan area, including those at the Mount Vernon College Campus. Information about the Virginia Campus is available by calling 703/726-8333. Employees with internet access should logon to www.gwu.edu/~gwalert for the most up to date information.

A new Web alert system displaying flashing “Important Info for GW” banners on GW’s three leading Web sites — the GW News Center (http://www.GWNews Center.org), the GWeb Portal (http://gweb.gwu.edu), and the GWired Student Network (http://gwired.gwu.edu) — will go into effect whenever important information needs to be communicated. The alert system will be used not only for inclement weather updates, but also for preparations for on-campus activities that might disrupt GW’s day-to-day operations and messages relating to off-campus situations that could impact the University community.

GW’s urban location and its access to public transportation, allows the University to remain open during most of Washington’s wintry weather. But when conditions indicate otherwise, GW has been known to close or to implement liberal leave. Because there can be differences in the operational status from one part of the University to another, and even one department to another, it’s important to get the most accurate and up-to-date information possible.

The Medical Center has emergency plans specifically for its units. If you are unfamiliar with these plans, please consult your supervisor. Employees who must report to work during inclement weather or emergency conditions will be designated by their supervisor. On both the Web site and the 5050 line, they will be referred to as “designated employees.”

The implementation of liberal leave during winter storms means that regular employees may use annual leave without advance notice or supervisory approval. However, those without annual leave will be granted a leave of absence without pay. All employees are advised to contact their supervisors if they plan to use liberal leave.

It’s important to note that the cancellation of classes does not mean that the University is closed or has implemented liberal leave. In addition, special events may be held despite the closure of the University or the announcement of liberal leave. Conversely, special events may be canceled even though the University is operating on a normal schedule.

GW notifies local television channels (4, 5, 7, 8, and 9) and radio stations (WTOP, 1500 AM; WMAL, 630 AM; and WAMU, 88.5 FM) regarding the University’s status. On occasion, however, these media outlets can get confused between cancellation of classes and a closing of the University.

 

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