The City of Weyburn's new Everbridge Emergency Alert System was put to its first test last weekend when subscribers were notified of severe thunderstorms.
"Environment Canada sent out a severe thunderstorm watch on Saturday (July 13)," said Fire Chief Steve Debienne. "Anyone who has been in this city for the past couple of years knows that those sorts of storms can turn into flash floods at a moment's notice. As well, there were some hints of tornado watches in some areas of the southeast. It was doubly important that we get information out to residents as soon as possible."
"The new Emergency Alert system performed exactly as planned. Through emails, text messages and automated phone messages, we were able to send alert information out very quickly."
According to the Fire Chief, although the thunderstorm passed with few lasting effects, the episode assured city staff and residents that the system will work as promised in the event of a real emergency.
"Now, all we need is for more people to sign up," he noted. "We can't emphasize that point too often. If we can't reach you, we can't alert you."
"If there really had been a tornado coming, I'm sure you'd want to know to get out of the way as soon as possible. It's in the best interests of yourself, your family and the community as a whole - and it's free!"
"The Everbridge system has already proven itself to be money well spent in the City's efforts to provide quick, accurate and effective information to residents when communication is critical."
Everbridge provides industry-leading interactive communication and mass notification solutions to organizations in all major industries and government sectors throughout North America, automating communication processes and integrating social media, data feeds, and recipient feedback into a single communications console. For more information, visit everbridge.com.
