The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection is encouraging residents to sign up for the CT Alert emergency notification system as the state continues to face rising threats from extreme weather.
Over the past few years, Connecticut has seen more flash floods, heavy rainstorms, and other sudden weather emergencies. Officials say that having advance notice can help residents make quick decisions to protect themselves and their families.
The CT Alert system delivers warnings about immediate threats to health and safety straight to resident’s phones. By signing up, people can get information about everything from dangerous weather to local public safety concerns.
Rick Green, Director of Communications for the agency, said about 250,000 residents have registered for CT Alert so far, but interest has grown recently.
“The system has been around for a few years, but after the flooding in Texas this past July, people started taking it more seriously,” said Green. “This is an early warning system that tells you when it’s time to get out. We only send emergency messages when residents need to act quickly, whether it’s flooding, a hurricane, or any kind of dangerous weather.”
Green added that one of the main challenges first responders face is that people don’t always take warnings seriously.
“The whole idea behind CT Alert is to give people a heads-up when something really bad is happening so they can move, act, and stay safe,” he said.
The CT Alert system delivers warnings about immediate threats to health and safety straight to residents’ phones, email, text messages, or certain hearing impaired devices, just by providing your information. By signing up, people can get information about everything from dangerous weather to local public safety concerns.
Residents can download the “CTPrepares” app on their mobile phones to access alerts and preparedness tools. They can also register online for CT Alert or simply text CTALERT to 888-777 to receive notifications.
From FCN partner Easton Courier.
