Public safety officials in Howard County today announced that Howard County Alerts is now available to all residents, replacing the previous Everbridge system. Howard County Alerts is a free service that allows individuals to receive notifications sent from local authorities to stay informed on potentially hazardous situations involving weather, traffic and other emergencies, including the spread of the coronavirus.
The switch to Howard County Alerts allows residents to receive alerts via phone, text and email, and answer poll questions that will give Howard County officials critical information during emergency situations. Individuals who are signed up for alerts will receive reliable information about the coronavirus, including tailored updates based on their specific needs and geographic location.
Residents and travelers to Howard County who were previously signed up for Everbridge will need to sign up for Howard County Alerts to provide their information in the new platform to ensure accuracy. Sign up for free at www.howardcountyin.gov to receive timely and actionable emergency alerts via email, text or voice message. They can also identify when and how they are alerted and communicated with before, during, and after emergencies.
Howard County residents and travelers can also download the Smart911 app to sign up to receive key information needed in an emergency. The Smart911 app provides enhanced functionality by sending targeted alerts based on the user’s location. Smart911 app users will receive the highest priority National Weather Service alerts including tornado warnings, flash flood warnings, and severe thunderstorm warnings based on their real-time location. Download the Smart911 App on the Apple Store or Google Play or by texting “Smart911” to 67283.
“Community members will receive notifications that will improve safety in our county and help inform residents of potentially lifesaving actions they may need to take in an emergency,” said Zach Rudolph, 911 Director “The information sent out by Howard County Alerts through emergency notifications allows both residents and first responders to be better informed in an emergency situation.
“Howard County Alerts strengthens Howard County officials’ ability to communicate with residents when it matters most,” continued Rudolph. “This service allows for critical communication with the public and provides individuals with the information needed to stay safe or take precautions during hazardous or emergency situations, especially the current coronavirus outbreak.”
Community members are encouraged to sign up for Howard County Alerts and input or update their information and notification preferences today at www.howardcountyin.gov.