PRINT DISCLAIMER: Official version of this document is accessible in the online policy library at https://policyoffice.ku.edu/. Printed copies may not reflect the most recent updates.
DOCUMENT TYPE:
Procedure
PURPOSE:
To authorize identified University of Kansas personnel to use Government Emergency Telecommunication Service (GETS) for emergent University business calls when attempts to communicate through normal or alternate telecommunications means fail using the public telephone network.
APPLIES TO:
Applies to all University employees authorized to use GETS
CAMPUS:
Lawrence, Edwards, Leavenworth, Juniper Gardens, Parsons, Pittsburg, Salina (KUL), Topeka, Wichita (KUL), Yoder, Medical Center (KUMC), Salina (KUMC), Wichita (KUMC)
DEFINITIONS:
Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS): An emergency telephone service that provides subscribers with priority access to calls in congested service provider networks.
Call Congestion: During emergencies, the public telephone network can experience delays or blockage due to increased call volumes and/or damage to the network facilities; hindering the ability of national security and emergency preparedness personnel to complete calls.
PROCEDURE STATEMENT:
The University maintains a constant state of readiness with the ability to carry out communications during a crisis. University leadership, emergency management personnel, as well as essential staff positions for emergency response, are enrolled in the Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS) federal program. GETS users are authorized to use the service for emergent University business calls during call congestion, when attempts to communicate through normal or alternate telecommunications by way of the public telephone network are unsuccessful.
Procedure:
GETS Point of Contact
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is responsible for designating a Point of Contact (POC), and, optionally, an alternate POC. The POC is responsible for the ongoing GETS account management including but not limited to:
A. Registering essential staff, managing users, accounts, and making decisions regarding user authorization and administration;
B. Adding, modifying, approving and deleting user information at the request of OEM; and
C. Submitting an online request for each user to the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Emergency Communications (OEC).
GETS Authorized User Requirements
A. Individuals who should be enrolled in GETS service:
i. Executive leadership
ii. Media relations/communications
iii. Emergency management personnel
iv. Continuity planning staff
v. Department heads essential to continuity of operations
vi. Law enforcement personnel
B. The GETS card is active upon arrival. Users should familiarize themselves with the user guides included with their GETS card.
C. In the event the GETS user changes positions within the organization, the user should notify the POC immediately and shall be removed from the GETS program if they no longer fulfill the eligibility criteria.
D. GETS users should only use their calling card for business operations during an emergency or disaster after experiencing call congestion or blockage.
E. GETS users should carry their GETS cards with them at all times. Users should safeguard their card and Personal Identification Number (PIN).
F. In the event a GETS card is lost or stolen, inform the POC immediately so the card can be canceled, and a replacement ordered.
G. To prevent fraud, users may also report a lost or compromised GETS card or PIN directly to the 24-Hour Assistance line, 800-818-4387 and then follow-up with a report to the POC.
H. There is no charge to subscribe to GETS; the only charge for GETS is usage.
I. Test calls are recommended to be made monthly to maintain familiarity with GETS.
Instructions:
GETS Authorized User Instructions from a Touch-tone Phone
A. Listen for dial tone
B. Dial 1-710-627-4387 (GETS)
C. Listen for the tone
D. Enter your Pin
E. Listen for the prompt
F. Enter the ten-digit destination number
G. If the call fails, repeat the process or try the alternate access numbers
i. AT&T 1-888-2888-4387 or 1-877-646-4387
ii. T-Mobile 1-855-333-4387
iii. Verizon 1-800-900-4387 or 1-855-400-4387
Easy Priority Calls for GETs through PTS Dialer App
A. Download the PTS Dialer App
i. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and search for “PTS Dialer.”
ii. Download, install, and open the app.
iii. Tap the menu (3 dots in the upper right) and choose Settings.
iv. Enter your GETS PIN in the field and tap outside the box to save.
v. Make a test call when prompted to verify your GETS PIN.
B. To Place a Call using the App
i. Enter the destination number using the keypad, or choose a number from contacts.
ii. Select GETS to initiate the call.
a. If using an iPhone, you will need to tap Call after choosing the service
iii. Additional information, including troubleshooting for the PTS Dialer, can be found at the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) website.
CONSEQUENCES:
The use of GETS to engage in illegal, unethical, abusive, harassment, or for any purpose inconsistent with or a violation of University policy or regulation may result in disciplinary action including restriction, loss of privileges, suspension, termination, or prosecution under applicable statutes.
CONTACT:
Director, Office of Emergency Management
kkolleda@kumc.edu
RESPONSIBLE UNIT:
Campus Operations
APPROVED BY:
Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer
APPROVAL DATE:
2026-05-01
EFFECTIVE DATE:
2026-05-01
REVIEW CYCLE:
2 years
RELATED RESOURCES:
Government Emergency Telecommunications Services (GETS) | CISA
GETS/WPS Programs
GETS-WPS User Organization Responsibilities
Government Emergency Telecommunications Service User Guide
CHANGE HISTORY:
05/01/2026: New All University procedure.
TITLE:
Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS)