Birmingham Introduces JeffCoALert System for Emergency Notifications
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has rolled out a new notification system called JeffCoALert, designed to keep residents informed about local events, particularly concerning severe weather and road closures. This system replaces the previous Everbridge notification system after months of careful planning and preparation.
Enhancing Community Communication
The significant change to the notification system aims to improve how the community receives alerts. EMA officials are focused on providing notifications in multiple languages and through various formats, which they believe will increase accessibility and help residents during emergencies. The JeffCoALert app is now available, offering real-time, location-specific alerts via phone calls and text messages.
One of the highlights of the new system is its capacity to deliver alerts in over 30 spoken languages and more than 60 written languages. “It’s extremely important if there is a life-threatening situation that they receive that information so they can take action,” stated EMA Officer Melissa Sizemore. This change reflects the EMA’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the community.
How to Sign Up
Residents can easily sign up for the new JeffCoALert system by visiting the EMA website. The process is straightforward, and users have the option to download the app, which does not require sharing any personal information. This means that even if you travel out of state, you’ll still receive notifications relevant to your home area.
For those who were already registered in the previous Everbridge system, there’s good news: all existing information has been automatically transferred to JeffCoALert. This should make the transition seamless for many residents.
Stay Updated
If you miss a phone call from the alert system, you can easily call back to hear the latest updates for your area. This feature is part of the EMA’s effort to ensure that no one is left in the dark during critical situations.
For more detailed information on how to set up JeffCoALert and customize notification preferences, residents are encouraged to visit the EMA’s official website. Additionally, the app is available for download in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Subscribers can also sign up for email newsletters to receive updates directly in their inboxes.
Conclusion
The introduction of the JeffCoALert system marks a significant step forward in Jefferson County’s emergency communication strategies. By providing immediate and actionable information in multiple languages, the EMA is better equipped to serve the diverse population of Birmingham and its surrounding areas. This system not only prioritizes safety but also enhances community engagement and preparedness.
As we navigate through various emergencies, staying informed is more critical than ever. With JeffCoALert, Birmingham residents can look forward to receiving timely and relevant alerts that will help them make informed decisions in times of crisis.
