New N.J. program sends emergency alerts via email, text message
by Chris Megerian/Statehouse Bureau
Thursday September 03, 2009, 12:47 PM
Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-Ledger
NJ State Police Superintendent Rick Fuentes issued a release today about NJ Alert, where residents can sign up for emergency alerts.
TRENTON -- New Jersey residents can sign up for emergency alerts from state law enforcement and homeland security agencies, state officials announced today. Alerts involving hurricanes, evacuations or terrorist attacks can be received via email or text message through the service, called NJ Alert.
"During an emergency, timely dissemination of accurate information is the cornerstone of public safety," Rick Fuentes, State Police superintendent and director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, said in a statement.
People can sign up for alerts at www.ready.nj.gov. Nicholas Morici, spokesman for the OEM, said the service was provided to the state for free by Professor Robert Statica at the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
"This is totally free not only to the state but to users," he said.
Morici said other states like New York have already implemented similar email and text messaging services.
New Jersey currently uses radio broadcasts to announce emergencies, he said.
Residents can also use the system to volunteer help during an emergency.
"We want people to know that when you see that message, public action needs to be taken," Morici said.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
NJ Residents Urged to Call 2-1-1 for Assistance
www.nj211.org
In the event of a community emergency 2-1-1 acts as a public information point for information in coordination with Emergency Management professionals. 2-1-1 responds immediately during times of crisis, to field calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services most appropriate for their needs.
NJ Division of Mental Health Toll-Free Helpline 877-294-HELP (4357) - Counseling and Stress Management Resources Available
No one who lives through a disaster is untouched by the experience. Like other disasters, severe storms and flooding can result in emotional distress, as well as property damage. Disasters can threaten our sense of control and safety, and can affect many aspects of our lives. Disaster stress that is unrecognized or unmanaged can impact our physical and mental health. Dealing with the emotional consequences soon after a disaster can help reduce the possibility of long-term problems. Recognizing and handling stress properly can help you meet the challenges of recovering from a storm or flood and reclaiming your sense of control and security.
In the event of a community emergency 2-1-1 acts as a public information point for information in coordination with Emergency Management professionals. 2-1-1 responds immediately during times of crisis, to field calls regarding the crisis and to direct callers to services most appropriate for their needs.
NJ Division of Mental Health Toll-Free Helpline 877-294-HELP (4357) - Counseling and Stress Management Resources Available
No one who lives through a disaster is untouched by the experience. Like other disasters, severe storms and flooding can result in emotional distress, as well as property damage. Disasters can threaten our sense of control and safety, and can affect many aspects of our lives. Disaster stress that is unrecognized or unmanaged can impact our physical and mental health. Dealing with the emotional consequences soon after a disaster can help reduce the possibility of long-term problems. Recognizing and handling stress properly can help you meet the challenges of recovering from a storm or flood and reclaiming your sense of control and security.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)