If you haven't heard about it yet, you're going to hear about CMAS. It's the Commercial Mobile Alert System through which cell carriers will "broadcast" emergency alerts to mobile devices within a geographic area. CMAS is slated to be available for use by public safety officials in 2012...at no charge.
The first CMAS pilot is being conducted in San Diego County. It was demonstrated this past week by the San Diego Office of Emergency Services. The County is working with Sprint and the California Emergency Management Agency on the pilot. They've distributed about 100 mobile devices throughout the county that have been adapted to receive CMAS messages.
Per federal law, CMAS can be used for only three things: (1) Presidential alerts, (2) imminent threats, and (3) Amber Alerts. The carriers are to start shipping CMAS-ready mobile devices in 2012.
CMAS is one of the initiatives that fall under FEMA's IPAWS (Integrated Public Alert and Warning System) program. Another that's received a good bit of attention lately is digitization of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). We've written a good bit on both programs. See an earlier post on CMAS here and ones on EAS here and here. And, we expect to write still more as these are important initiatives that will eventually touch public safety officials throughout the country. Stay tuned!
All the best,
Rick
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Friday, October 15, 2010
Notifications Gone Bad
A couple of recent mistakes with telephone notification systems has the general public agitated, in one case the public scattered across the country.
In one instance, a notification for Creighton University in Omaha about a possible shooting woke up people scattered around the country, some of whom probably had never heard of Creighton. A university spokeswoman said the glitch was related to the vendor Creighton uses, but didn't name the vendor.
In another recent situation Decatur, Illinois used their telephone notification system on two occasions within hours of one another to issue alerts about, first, an Alzheimer's patient, then a missing 16-year-old with medical problems. The notifications covered a five-mile radius, including area outside the city. Some residents complained that they should have not received the message. A city spokesman acknowledged that the notifications perhaps could have been confined to a more restricted area. However, he urged residents not to use the incident as a reason to ask to be removed from the notification lists.
Hard to tell what should have been done differently in the first situation. I'm sure Creighton and the vendor are working to make sure it doesn't happen again. In the second one, perhaps the city did notify an area too wide. We shouldn't second-guess. But, we do like the fact that the city spokesman was quick to say, hey, we may have over-reached...but, don't ask to be taken off the call list.
This is not a perfect science. Mishaps will occur. Better they occur by notifying too many people than not enough people. Let's learn from the mistakes, and move on.
All the best,
Rick
In one instance, a notification for Creighton University in Omaha about a possible shooting woke up people scattered around the country, some of whom probably had never heard of Creighton. A university spokeswoman said the glitch was related to the vendor Creighton uses, but didn't name the vendor.
In another recent situation Decatur, Illinois used their telephone notification system on two occasions within hours of one another to issue alerts about, first, an Alzheimer's patient, then a missing 16-year-old with medical problems. The notifications covered a five-mile radius, including area outside the city. Some residents complained that they should have not received the message. A city spokesman acknowledged that the notifications perhaps could have been confined to a more restricted area. However, he urged residents not to use the incident as a reason to ask to be removed from the notification lists.
Hard to tell what should have been done differently in the first situation. I'm sure Creighton and the vendor are working to make sure it doesn't happen again. In the second one, perhaps the city did notify an area too wide. We shouldn't second-guess. But, we do like the fact that the city spokesman was quick to say, hey, we may have over-reached...but, don't ask to be taken off the call list.
This is not a perfect science. Mishaps will occur. Better they occur by notifying too many people than not enough people. Let's learn from the mistakes, and move on.
All the best,
Rick
Monday, October 11, 2010
Emergency Notification and the Deaf Community
An ongoing concern among emergency managers across the country is how to adequately alert and notify citizens with disabilities. The topic is complicated (too complex for a simple blog post). However, I do want to pass along some insight gained recently in discussions with IPAWS staff and senior leaders of the Georgia Tech Center for Advanced Communications Policy (experts on communications technologies for people with disabilities). This particular insight relates to individuals who are deaf from birth and how their communication requirements may differ.
I have to admit a certain degree of confusion and lack of understanding on this issue. Over the years, we have witnessed members of this community express a desire to have alerts pushed to recipients in video format that would feature an interpreter creating a sign-language version of the message.
In my ignorance, I wondered why text-based methods simply did not suffice (SMS, email, TDD/TTY)--particularly since pushing video to large groups of people has network implications (especially during a crisis) and a practical challenge exists in having the equipment and resources to capture "broadcast quality" video at the local emergency management level.
I've since learned that citizens who are deaf from birth process information differently from others who do not have hearing deficiencies (different even from those who have developed deficiencies over time or as a result of an injury). Sign language itself is more "conceptual" in nature--not a literal translations of all words. And, conceptual interaction typically forms the basis of communication for individuals who did not initially learn to process information through hearing. As such, communications in text form may not carry the same meaning as communications in the conceptual signing form.
Given this, it would certainly be prudent for emergency managers to investigate ways of providing alert messages in sign language forms. How can this be achieved practically? There are a couple of resources worth looking into.
First is a resource named DeafLink. This organization offers sign language interpretation to anyone interested in reaching the deaf community, including government agencies. They provide support for emergency management and first responder agencies through their Accessible Hazard Alert System (AHAS). According to its website: "In minutes after receiving authorized emergency information, Deaf Link produces an 'air ready' alert for broadcast by cable or television stations in sign language, voice and text."
A second interesting resource is Signtel. Signtel is offering a beta application that claims to be able to translate text into sign language automatically in real time. According to its website: "Users can create messages by typing text or using speech recognition. The system translates the message into Sign Language video, which can then be transmitted along with the text and voice message..."
While we do not have first-hand experience with either of these services, they certainly seem worthy of exploration. Whatever the approach, we believe emergency managers should carefully consider ways to enhance their notification programs to ensure alerts and warnings are equally accessible to everyone in the community.
I have to admit a certain degree of confusion and lack of understanding on this issue. Over the years, we have witnessed members of this community express a desire to have alerts pushed to recipients in video format that would feature an interpreter creating a sign-language version of the message.
In my ignorance, I wondered why text-based methods simply did not suffice (SMS, email, TDD/TTY)--particularly since pushing video to large groups of people has network implications (especially during a crisis) and a practical challenge exists in having the equipment and resources to capture "broadcast quality" video at the local emergency management level.
I've since learned that citizens who are deaf from birth process information differently from others who do not have hearing deficiencies (different even from those who have developed deficiencies over time or as a result of an injury). Sign language itself is more "conceptual" in nature--not a literal translations of all words. And, conceptual interaction typically forms the basis of communication for individuals who did not initially learn to process information through hearing. As such, communications in text form may not carry the same meaning as communications in the conceptual signing form.
Given this, it would certainly be prudent for emergency managers to investigate ways of providing alert messages in sign language forms. How can this be achieved practically? There are a couple of resources worth looking into.
First is a resource named DeafLink. This organization offers sign language interpretation to anyone interested in reaching the deaf community, including government agencies. They provide support for emergency management and first responder agencies through their Accessible Hazard Alert System (AHAS). According to its website: "In minutes after receiving authorized emergency information, Deaf Link produces an 'air ready' alert for broadcast by cable or television stations in sign language, voice and text."
A second interesting resource is Signtel. Signtel is offering a beta application that claims to be able to translate text into sign language automatically in real time. According to its website: "Users can create messages by typing text or using speech recognition. The system translates the message into Sign Language video, which can then be transmitted along with the text and voice message..."
While we do not have first-hand experience with either of these services, they certainly seem worthy of exploration. Whatever the approach, we believe emergency managers should carefully consider ways to enhance their notification programs to ensure alerts and warnings are equally accessible to everyone in the community.
Thanks to Dr. Helena Mitchell, Salimah LaForce, and Frank Lucia of Georgia Tech's Center for Advanced Communication Policy, and to Al Kenyon of FEMA IPAWS for their input.
Best regards,
Lorin
Lorin
Thursday, October 7, 2010
City of New York Begins Silver Alerts
Today, City of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed legislation establishing a Silver Alert notification system. According to a press release by the mayor's office, more than 250,000 people within the city suffer from from Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia that contribute to people wandering away from caregivers. As such, this vulnerable population is at risk of injury or death.
With the signing of this legislation, the Police Department will be charged to develop and implement a means for sharing information about missing seniors who may be in imminent danger. Shared information will include a person's name, age, brief description, and the area where they were last seen or the description of the car they may have been driving. Public notifications will be sent through various outlets to include NotifyNYC (the city's automated notification system), television and radio, as well as hospitals, senior centers and other institutions.
We see this as a growing trend across the country and applaud New York's efforts to use emergency notification technology as a valuable life-saving tool.
Best regards,
Lorin
With the signing of this legislation, the Police Department will be charged to develop and implement a means for sharing information about missing seniors who may be in imminent danger. Shared information will include a person's name, age, brief description, and the area where they were last seen or the description of the car they may have been driving. Public notifications will be sent through various outlets to include NotifyNYC (the city's automated notification system), television and radio, as well as hospitals, senior centers and other institutions.
We see this as a growing trend across the country and applaud New York's efforts to use emergency notification technology as a valuable life-saving tool.
Best regards,
Lorin
Monday, October 4, 2010
Interesting New Twist on Alerting Program
The State of New Jersey has announced that it is "re-introducing" its public alert and warning system. "New Jersey Alert" does the typical things of services of this type: allows residents to sign up to get text message and telephone call alerts.
But, here's something rather cool we've not seen before. As residents sign up for New Jersey Alert, they can also sign up to provide professional assistance to responders. New Jersey calls it The Human Emergency Grid™.
The Grid's creator is a volunteer organization called United Alert, which used the following words to explain: "....a collaborative effort in which the general public can volunteer their professional expertise to assist responders, if needed, in the event of an emergency. The service can also be used as a social networking tool. For example many groups have already been created to promote a collaborative environment between the government, private sectors and general public."
Now, that's the type of creativity we like. It consolidates the alert and warning program with another program. What would be some other possible links to alert and warning we've not seen?
All the best,
Rick
But, here's something rather cool we've not seen before. As residents sign up for New Jersey Alert, they can also sign up to provide professional assistance to responders. New Jersey calls it The Human Emergency Grid™.
The Grid's creator is a volunteer organization called United Alert, which used the following words to explain: "....a collaborative effort in which the general public can volunteer their professional expertise to assist responders, if needed, in the event of an emergency. The service can also be used as a social networking tool. For example many groups have already been created to promote a collaborative environment between the government, private sectors and general public."
Now, that's the type of creativity we like. It consolidates the alert and warning program with another program. What would be some other possible links to alert and warning we've not seen?
All the best,
Rick
Thursday, September 30, 2010
FEMA Approves CAP 1.2
FEMA has announced that it has approved the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) version 1.2. This means that industry now officially knows how to properly format CAP messages to conform to a standard that's taking hold. And, it means that emergency managers now know what standard to ask their vendors to meet so that emegency alerting messages are spoken in the same language to facilitate more diverse modes of communication.
The industry sector most focused on the CAP 1.2 standard at the moment are the vendors who make equipment that support the Emergency Alert System (EAS). FEMA, the FCC, and broadcasters are modernizing and enhancing EAS. CAP 1.2 is an integral part. With the FEMA announcement made, the FCC now starts a 180-day clock ticking for requiring broadcasters to have CAP 1.2 equipment in place. Some broadcasters and equipment makers say the CAP standard is not enough, that they need still more information before they can put new EAS equipment to work. Lisa Fowlkes of the FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau today (Thursday) told radio broadcasters at the Radio Show conference that their concerns are being heard and reviewed by the FCC.
Implementation details aside, emergency managers and broadcasters should be communicating about how new EAS works and what new opportunities it presents. We know of at least at least two capital cities who are using EAS modernization as an opportunity to put new equipment in place so the local EMA will have ability to activate EAS without going through the National Weather Service or the state. Perhaps others who don't have this capability should be discussing the same. And, certainly, as we've posted before, this would be a good time for emergency management officials to sit down with their local broadcasters to talk about how they can work together toward a better informed public.
All the best,
Rick
The industry sector most focused on the CAP 1.2 standard at the moment are the vendors who make equipment that support the Emergency Alert System (EAS). FEMA, the FCC, and broadcasters are modernizing and enhancing EAS. CAP 1.2 is an integral part. With the FEMA announcement made, the FCC now starts a 180-day clock ticking for requiring broadcasters to have CAP 1.2 equipment in place. Some broadcasters and equipment makers say the CAP standard is not enough, that they need still more information before they can put new EAS equipment to work. Lisa Fowlkes of the FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau today (Thursday) told radio broadcasters at the Radio Show conference that their concerns are being heard and reviewed by the FCC.
Implementation details aside, emergency managers and broadcasters should be communicating about how new EAS works and what new opportunities it presents. We know of at least at least two capital cities who are using EAS modernization as an opportunity to put new equipment in place so the local EMA will have ability to activate EAS without going through the National Weather Service or the state. Perhaps others who don't have this capability should be discussing the same. And, certainly, as we've posted before, this would be a good time for emergency management officials to sit down with their local broadcasters to talk about how they can work together toward a better informed public.
All the best,
Rick
Monday, September 27, 2010
EMA Directors and Broadcasters, Unite!
We had an opportunity last week to attend a meeting between a county emergency management agency and local broadcasters in a mid-sized community in the mid-west. Over twenty members of the local Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) were there to talk about how they could work better with local emergency management. OK, let's face it. Broadcast engineers are not necessarily an exciting lot. But, in this meeting, they were getting excited.
There were a couple of things getting them excited. First, they were trying to understand new requirements surrounding the Emergency Alert System (EAS). EAS is being digitized, so the broadcasters must buy new equipment that will receive messages based on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP). Before too long, FEMA will announce that it has approved the CAP 1.2 standard. Broadcasters will then have 180 days to put new equipment in place. When asked how they feel about the requirement, they slapped me around a bit and said, in effect, "it doesn't matter how we feel, we're going to do it because it's a requirement".
The second thing getting them excited, and this is really the point of the post, was the fact that the county had taken the initiative to get their opinion about the county's plans to enhance its notification program - sirens, telephone notification, etc included. This excitement was positive. They clearly appreciated the county asking for input. And, the main theme of their input was, make sure other notification technologies used by the county also follow CAP standards. They liked the idea of the same message, in the same format, being used to activate EAS and other notification tools. (Now, this is not to suggest that EAS is activated everytime the county uses their other notification tools.)
Certainly, it's not uncommon for local public safety and broadcasters to work together. But, this would be a good opportunity for emergency management and other public safety to step up engagement with broadcasters and local cable companies. The CAP requirements have them talking. So, why not seize the opportunity to sit down with them, hear their concerns, and talk about ways to better work together? Local SBE chapters are a good place to start.
All the best,
Rick
There were a couple of things getting them excited. First, they were trying to understand new requirements surrounding the Emergency Alert System (EAS). EAS is being digitized, so the broadcasters must buy new equipment that will receive messages based on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP). Before too long, FEMA will announce that it has approved the CAP 1.2 standard. Broadcasters will then have 180 days to put new equipment in place. When asked how they feel about the requirement, they slapped me around a bit and said, in effect, "it doesn't matter how we feel, we're going to do it because it's a requirement".
The second thing getting them excited, and this is really the point of the post, was the fact that the county had taken the initiative to get their opinion about the county's plans to enhance its notification program - sirens, telephone notification, etc included. This excitement was positive. They clearly appreciated the county asking for input. And, the main theme of their input was, make sure other notification technologies used by the county also follow CAP standards. They liked the idea of the same message, in the same format, being used to activate EAS and other notification tools. (Now, this is not to suggest that EAS is activated everytime the county uses their other notification tools.)
Certainly, it's not uncommon for local public safety and broadcasters to work together. But, this would be a good opportunity for emergency management and other public safety to step up engagement with broadcasters and local cable companies. The CAP requirements have them talking. So, why not seize the opportunity to sit down with them, hear their concerns, and talk about ways to better work together? Local SBE chapters are a good place to start.
All the best,
Rick
Friday, September 24, 2010
Radio Used as Backbone for Notification Test
This week, Metis Secure Solutions announced the completion of a project funded by FEMA to illustrate the effectiveness of sending emergency alerts through the FM Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) method. RBDS is a U.S. radio industry standard for transmitting digital information to radio receivers. It's the technology that drives your ability to see song/artist information on a car radio, and can be used to deliver other types of data such as emergency alert messages.
There were four tests--one of them originating with the common alerting protocol (CAP) format. Each alert activated voice, text, lights and sirens (these devices are capable of receiving and interpreting the radio signal). Alert text was sent in English and Spanish, and the alert voice was activated in English, Spanish, and Korean.
Typically, mass notification systems rely on Internet protocols or mobile phone networks. It will be interesting to see what future applications emerge as this radio-oriented concept continues to gain traction.
Best regards,
Lorin
There were four tests--one of them originating with the common alerting protocol (CAP) format. Each alert activated voice, text, lights and sirens (these devices are capable of receiving and interpreting the radio signal). Alert text was sent in English and Spanish, and the alert voice was activated in English, Spanish, and Korean.
Typically, mass notification systems rely on Internet protocols or mobile phone networks. It will be interesting to see what future applications emerge as this radio-oriented concept continues to gain traction.
Best regards,
Lorin
Thursday, September 23, 2010
FEMA Conducting National Alert & Warning Inventory
Emergency managers, don't be surprised to hear from a FEMA contractor with lots of questions about your local public alert and warning systems. FEMA is doing a nationwide inventory to find out the depth of alert and warning systems across the country. Here are some of the things you may be asked:
- What functions are your system designed to accomplish, and how often is it used?
- Who has authority to activate, and under what conditions?
- What's your system's brand and age? Are you pleased with it?
- What are the costs: maintenance, labor, utility, and training?
- Is the system accredited/certified?
- Is the system backed-up and how?
Plus, FEMA wants to know if you have public alert and warning systems that are not currently operational or cause a distraction for one reason or another. And, if you have desires for systems you don't already have, FEMA wants to know about that, too.
The survey is being conducted by a contractor for the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) program. Results will be used to help IPAWS accomplish its Congressional and Presidential mandates to provide integrated services and capabilities to state and local authorities to enable them to alert and warn communities through multiple communications methods.
At this point, the most "mature" IPAWS initiatives are digitizing the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and working toward a 2012 launch of cellular broadcast alerts through CMAS (Commercial Mobile Alert System). IPAWS has also been showing off a demo system that uses a wide array of communications methods...lots of lights flashing, and sounds blaring. (Congress is getting a demo of it this week.)
We're interested in getting comments on IPAWS, in learning more about what people know about IPAWS, and how IPAWS can do a good job of making sure the right people know about it. Feel free to contact me at rick.wimberly@galainsolutions.com or Lorin at lorin.bristow@galainsolutions.com or comment through the post.
All the best,
Rick
- What functions are your system designed to accomplish, and how often is it used?
- Who has authority to activate, and under what conditions?
- What's your system's brand and age? Are you pleased with it?
- What are the costs: maintenance, labor, utility, and training?
- Is the system accredited/certified?
- Is the system backed-up and how?
Plus, FEMA wants to know if you have public alert and warning systems that are not currently operational or cause a distraction for one reason or another. And, if you have desires for systems you don't already have, FEMA wants to know about that, too.
The survey is being conducted by a contractor for the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) program. Results will be used to help IPAWS accomplish its Congressional and Presidential mandates to provide integrated services and capabilities to state and local authorities to enable them to alert and warn communities through multiple communications methods.
At this point, the most "mature" IPAWS initiatives are digitizing the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and working toward a 2012 launch of cellular broadcast alerts through CMAS (Commercial Mobile Alert System). IPAWS has also been showing off a demo system that uses a wide array of communications methods...lots of lights flashing, and sounds blaring. (Congress is getting a demo of it this week.)
We're interested in getting comments on IPAWS, in learning more about what people know about IPAWS, and how IPAWS can do a good job of making sure the right people know about it. Feel free to contact me at rick.wimberly@galainsolutions.com or Lorin at lorin.bristow@galainsolutions.com or comment through the post.
All the best,
Rick
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
3 Alerting Companies Make Top Growth List
Three companies that sell emergency notification solutions have made "The Inc. 5000". The Inc. 5000 is Inc. business magazine's list of the 5000 fastest growing companies in the U.S. The three companies are MIR3, Amcom, and Send Word Now.
MIR3 finished 865th with reported growth of 348%. Amcom was 895th with 336% growth. Send Word Now finished in place 1228 with 243% growth.
MIR3 and Send Word Now appear to focus primarily on the private sector, but claim government customers, too. Amcom sells lots of other public safety stuff, in addition to automated notification.
With major changes ahead for the industry, we'll be interested in seeing who finishes where next year.
All the best,
Rick
MIR3 finished 865th with reported growth of 348%. Amcom was 895th with 336% growth. Send Word Now finished in place 1228 with 243% growth.
MIR3 and Send Word Now appear to focus primarily on the private sector, but claim government customers, too. Amcom sells lots of other public safety stuff, in addition to automated notification.
With major changes ahead for the industry, we'll be interested in seeing who finishes where next year.
All the best,
Rick
Monday, September 20, 2010
New Jersey Looking to Create a Specialized Notification Registry
New Jersey is in the process of passing a bill to create a specialized emergency notification registry. The voluntary registry would be used specifically to notify family members when a person is involved in a serious automobile accident.
According to an AP article by Bruce Shipowski, the measure would allow individuals with a New Jersey driver's license or state identification card to submit the name and telephone number of an emergency contact to the Motor Vehicle Commission. If the person is seriously injured or killed in an auto accident, law enforcement personnel would use the registry to notify the emergency contact.
The measure is known as "Sara's Law," in honor of Sara Dubinin, a 19-year-old resident of Sayreville, NJ who was critically injured in an auto accident. It took responders 90 minutes to determine her identity and notify her parents. Tragically, Sara slipped into a coma en route to the hospital and never regained consciousness.
While this is not a mass notification solution of the type we typically discuss here, it will be interesting to follow nevertheless for two reasons. First, state-wide notification initiatives of various types are being considered across the country. Though limited in scope, this is another example of a state legislature recognizing the need for some form of notification system.
Second, assuming this measure passes, it will be interesting to see how the public responds to sign-ups. Convincing citizens to sign up for voluntary registries is no small feat as evidenced by notification programs across the country. However, the simplicity and focused nature of the program may compel people to participate. It's reminiscent of the "ICE (In Case of Emergency)" initiative where people are encouraged to enter emergency contact information in their mobile devices under the heading of "ICE". This idea was conceived in 2005 by an EMT in the United Kingdom and has spread virally across the globe in a relatively short amount of time.
Will this pass and be a successful statewide initiative? Only time will tell. In the meantime, the public discussion certainly helps highlight an important issue.
Best regards,
Lorin
According to an AP article by Bruce Shipowski, the measure would allow individuals with a New Jersey driver's license or state identification card to submit the name and telephone number of an emergency contact to the Motor Vehicle Commission. If the person is seriously injured or killed in an auto accident, law enforcement personnel would use the registry to notify the emergency contact.
The measure is known as "Sara's Law," in honor of Sara Dubinin, a 19-year-old resident of Sayreville, NJ who was critically injured in an auto accident. It took responders 90 minutes to determine her identity and notify her parents. Tragically, Sara slipped into a coma en route to the hospital and never regained consciousness.
While this is not a mass notification solution of the type we typically discuss here, it will be interesting to follow nevertheless for two reasons. First, state-wide notification initiatives of various types are being considered across the country. Though limited in scope, this is another example of a state legislature recognizing the need for some form of notification system.
Second, assuming this measure passes, it will be interesting to see how the public responds to sign-ups. Convincing citizens to sign up for voluntary registries is no small feat as evidenced by notification programs across the country. However, the simplicity and focused nature of the program may compel people to participate. It's reminiscent of the "ICE (In Case of Emergency)" initiative where people are encouraged to enter emergency contact information in their mobile devices under the heading of "ICE". This idea was conceived in 2005 by an EMT in the United Kingdom and has spread virally across the globe in a relatively short amount of time.
Will this pass and be a successful statewide initiative? Only time will tell. In the meantime, the public discussion certainly helps highlight an important issue.
Best regards,
Lorin
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Watch Out for Fake EAS Tones
There's a radio commercial that's been airing in some markets that's accidentally setting off Emergency Alert System (EAS) alerts. The commercial by the gas company Arco uses the same tones used to activate EAS alerts.
The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) has put its members on alert. The problem exists only in markets where the Arco commercial is airing on local radio stations and, according to the SBE, where certain equipment is used by the local stations.
SBE has posted the commercial here.
Arco is owned by BP. Now, we have to wonder, BP, don't you have enough trouble already?
All the best,
Rick
The Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE) has put its members on alert. The problem exists only in markets where the Arco commercial is airing on local radio stations and, according to the SBE, where certain equipment is used by the local stations.
SBE has posted the commercial here.
Arco is owned by BP. Now, we have to wonder, BP, don't you have enough trouble already?
All the best,
Rick
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
When Good Notifications Go Bad
The Fourmile wildfire just outside of Boulder, Colorado is thankfully mostly contained as of this writing. However, discussions surrounding a partial failure of the county's emergency notification system may remain heated for some time. Just over 2600 residents did not receive emergency notification evacuation notices during the height of the wildfires.
The situation highlights a reality for emergency managers. No doubt, ENS technology is an indispensable technology for public safety. However, technologies fail and people make mistakes. So how should emergency officials respond when things don't go as planned with a notification? Here are a few tips to consider.
Have a backup plan.
Experienced emergency managers know you have to be prepared for any contingency. This holds true for notification as well. Consider the actions required if the ENS is not operational and develop response plans accordingly.
Preventing is better than fixing.
Some problems can be addressed before they arise through operator education and exercising. Consistent training and simulation is critical to keeping problems away before they start (or at least identifying problematic issues when there is no ongoing crisis with which to contend).
Don't forget to test.
Along these lines, make sure you frequently and regularly test both your systems and your procedures. We have seen agencies faithfully perform system tests, but forget to regularly evaluate internal procedures.
Keep citizens informed of problem causes and improvements.
It's never fun to be in the media cross hairs after a problem has occurred. However, it's important to be open and honest with what really happened. Accurately describing failures and communicating commitments about problem corrections will go a long way towards rebuilding trust.
From our perspective, officials in Colorado dealt with a difficult situation as well as one could hope. Everyone in the industry can learn from this event and prepare themselves should emergency notification events fail to meet expectations.
Best regards,
Lorin
The situation highlights a reality for emergency managers. No doubt, ENS technology is an indispensable technology for public safety. However, technologies fail and people make mistakes. So how should emergency officials respond when things don't go as planned with a notification? Here are a few tips to consider.
Have a backup plan.
Experienced emergency managers know you have to be prepared for any contingency. This holds true for notification as well. Consider the actions required if the ENS is not operational and develop response plans accordingly.
Preventing is better than fixing.
Some problems can be addressed before they arise through operator education and exercising. Consistent training and simulation is critical to keeping problems away before they start (or at least identifying problematic issues when there is no ongoing crisis with which to contend).
Don't forget to test.
Along these lines, make sure you frequently and regularly test both your systems and your procedures. We have seen agencies faithfully perform system tests, but forget to regularly evaluate internal procedures.
Keep citizens informed of problem causes and improvements.
It's never fun to be in the media cross hairs after a problem has occurred. However, it's important to be open and honest with what really happened. Accurately describing failures and communicating commitments about problem corrections will go a long way towards rebuilding trust.
From our perspective, officials in Colorado dealt with a difficult situation as well as one could hope. Everyone in the industry can learn from this event and prepare themselves should emergency notification events fail to meet expectations.
Best regards,
Lorin
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Approaching Hurricane Stimulated Social Media for Alerts
Morris County, New Jersey has always appeared to us as being progressive in its emergency management practices. The county took another step recently when it appeared that Hurricane Earl was threatening the area. The county launched Twitter and Facebook alerts. A handful of people signed up, but enough for the county to get enthused about it.
We're hearing more and more of this type of alerting, and we like it. But, as the local newspaper The Daily Record reported the county's web master as saying "this system is meant to augment, not replace, existing emergency notification systems." Certainly, social media won't reach everyone...but, the number of people it's reaching is growing every day. (Even my mom is on Facebook.) And, it's really not that hard to set it up. It falls in beautifully with the "systems of systems" approach where multiple modes of communication are used simultaneously to issue alerts and warnings.
Way to go, Morris County!
All the best,
Rick
We're hearing more and more of this type of alerting, and we like it. But, as the local newspaper The Daily Record reported the county's web master as saying "this system is meant to augment, not replace, existing emergency notification systems." Certainly, social media won't reach everyone...but, the number of people it's reaching is growing every day. (Even my mom is on Facebook.) And, it's really not that hard to set it up. It falls in beautifully with the "systems of systems" approach where multiple modes of communication are used simultaneously to issue alerts and warnings.
Way to go, Morris County!
All the best,
Rick
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Microsoft Vine, the Emergency Notification Tool, is being Shut Down
Microsoft has announced it is abandoning its beta program for Vine. Vine was unveiled last mid-year as a tool for helping friends and family stay in touch during emergencies. As it was designed, it would have given individuals ability to post information that would help keep others updated during an emergency.
News feeds would have been available, such as information from local emergency managers. Facebook updates could have been used. But, mostly, it was a place where someone could post their status during an emergency so that others could check on them.
No word on why Microsoft has decided to kill Vine. But, we can't help but note that Facebook and Twitter have been creating a lot of buzz lately as tools for use in emergencies. We don't believe Microsoft's decision to shut down Vine is an indication of the public's appetite for this type of application during emergencies. Using social media for emergencies is beginning to be a way of life, ready or not.
All the best,
Rick
News feeds would have been available, such as information from local emergency managers. Facebook updates could have been used. But, mostly, it was a place where someone could post their status during an emergency so that others could check on them.
No word on why Microsoft has decided to kill Vine. But, we can't help but note that Facebook and Twitter have been creating a lot of buzz lately as tools for use in emergencies. We don't believe Microsoft's decision to shut down Vine is an indication of the public's appetite for this type of application during emergencies. Using social media for emergencies is beginning to be a way of life, ready or not.
All the best,
Rick
Friday, September 10, 2010
Emergency Management a Pawn in FM Chip Debate
There's quite a broohaha underway over whether chips for receiving FM broadcasts should be added to mobile devices. Emergency management is often mentioned.
Broadcasters argue loudly that FM chips should be placed in mobile devices to help support the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and information radio stations broadcast during critical events. Broadcasters want this so badly that the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) says it will support new music royalties for broadcasters, if the FM chips become mandatory.
NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton blogged that "Arguments against this pro-consumer feature have been long on exaggeration, rhetoric, and factual inaccuracies." Then, he listed a long post to counter criticism about radio-enabled mobile devices. Public safety was prominent among his arguments. In his post, he showed a sign posted by local authorities after a tornado touched down in Alabama, saying tune to a local radio station for directions and information.
On the other side of the argument are cellular carriers and the companies that make mobile devices. They say adding FM chips will shorten battery life and make the devices heavier and more costly. Six associations, including the Consumer Electronics Association, recently sent a letter to Congress saying, “Calls for an FM chip mandate are not about public safety but are instead about propping up a business which consumers are abandoning as they avail themselves of new, more consumer-friendly options.”
This has become a heated battle, one that emergency managers will want to watch.
All the best,
Rick
Broadcasters argue loudly that FM chips should be placed in mobile devices to help support the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and information radio stations broadcast during critical events. Broadcasters want this so badly that the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) says it will support new music royalties for broadcasters, if the FM chips become mandatory.
NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton blogged that "Arguments against this pro-consumer feature have been long on exaggeration, rhetoric, and factual inaccuracies." Then, he listed a long post to counter criticism about radio-enabled mobile devices. Public safety was prominent among his arguments. In his post, he showed a sign posted by local authorities after a tornado touched down in Alabama, saying tune to a local radio station for directions and information.
On the other side of the argument are cellular carriers and the companies that make mobile devices. They say adding FM chips will shorten battery life and make the devices heavier and more costly. Six associations, including the Consumer Electronics Association, recently sent a letter to Congress saying, “Calls for an FM chip mandate are not about public safety but are instead about propping up a business which consumers are abandoning as they avail themselves of new, more consumer-friendly options.”
This has become a heated battle, one that emergency managers will want to watch.
All the best,
Rick
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Promoting Preparedness with Community Notification
As most of you know, September is National Preparedness Month--a time to increase public awareness on preparing for disasters. Historically, compelling people to proactively ready themselves for bad things (particularly when no imminent threat exists) has proven to be difficult. For example, last year, the American Red Cross found in a national survey that 89% of Americans believed it was important to prepare for disasters, but only 57% said they had taken steps toward preparedness.
So how can emergency notification systems aid in citizen preparation?
Promoting preparedness with ENS.
ENS systems are powerful tools for informing citizens quickly and efficiently. As such, local agencies should consider using them to encourage citizen preparedness. While automated calls are not appropriate for imparting a great deal of detail, here is some information you may wish to communicate:
- Refer citizens to online resources such as www.ready.gov that describes items to include in preparedness kits (or better yet, refer them to your local emergency management site that includes this information).
- In addition to "hard goods" preparation such as water and flashlights, encourage the development of personal communications plans. Provide details on your website.
- Promote sign-ups for mobile devices. Make this an easily identifiable link on your preparedness web page. Even if your initial calls don't hit unregistered citizens (those with cell phones only), your message may reach them "virally" from those who do receive it.
- Encourage notification recipients to help others prepare (particularly at-risk populations such as the elderly and special needs citizens).
While the option of sending mass notifications may not be available to all emergency managers due to funding or data licensing issues, many can take advantage of this useful communications tool to remind citizens of their own role in responding to critical events. The end result is a safer, more protected population, which seems to me is the primary goal of a notification system anyway.
Best regards,
Lorin
So how can emergency notification systems aid in citizen preparation?
Promoting preparedness with ENS.
ENS systems are powerful tools for informing citizens quickly and efficiently. As such, local agencies should consider using them to encourage citizen preparedness. While automated calls are not appropriate for imparting a great deal of detail, here is some information you may wish to communicate:
- Refer citizens to online resources such as www.ready.gov that describes items to include in preparedness kits (or better yet, refer them to your local emergency management site that includes this information).
- In addition to "hard goods" preparation such as water and flashlights, encourage the development of personal communications plans. Provide details on your website.
- Promote sign-ups for mobile devices. Make this an easily identifiable link on your preparedness web page. Even if your initial calls don't hit unregistered citizens (those with cell phones only), your message may reach them "virally" from those who do receive it.
- Encourage notification recipients to help others prepare (particularly at-risk populations such as the elderly and special needs citizens).
While the option of sending mass notifications may not be available to all emergency managers due to funding or data licensing issues, many can take advantage of this useful communications tool to remind citizens of their own role in responding to critical events. The end result is a safer, more protected population, which seems to me is the primary goal of a notification system anyway.
Best regards,
Lorin
Thursday, September 2, 2010
More Mainsteam Media Attention for Alerts and Notifications
For the second time in the past months, emergency notification has received a nice plug from a national business publication. Inc. magazine, which touts itself as "The Magazine for Growing Companies", cited CiviGuard in a near-front-of-the-magazine article about Gov 2.0. Inc. says Gov 2.0 brings "the virtues of the Web to government". It described CiviGuard as a "high-tech version of the old emergency broadcast system. Alerts are distributed through smartphone apps and text messages."
In its July edition, Inc. did a profile on Nixle, a notification service that allows public safety to push out text alerts at no charge.
Interesting that such a widely read "mainstream" publication that doesn't focus on public safety has written articles twice recently about an industry that serves a niche market within public safety. It's also interesting that neither CiviGuard nor Nixle have historically strong market shares in the notification industry.
Is something afoot? Perhaps so. The notification and alerting "space" is becoming increasingly important (maybe even interesting), and the big-time players in the industry may be changing. Certainly, the large cell carriers are entering the field. See our recent post on Sprint and the State of California conducting the first pilot of CMAS, the Commercial Mobile Alerting Service. If the timeframes stick, by 2012, emergency managers throughout the country should be able to provide text alerts to cell phones within a selected geographic area...at no charge...through Sprint and other carriers.
Times, they are a'changin', and people, they are a'watchin'.
All the best,
Rick
In its July edition, Inc. did a profile on Nixle, a notification service that allows public safety to push out text alerts at no charge.
Interesting that such a widely read "mainstream" publication that doesn't focus on public safety has written articles twice recently about an industry that serves a niche market within public safety. It's also interesting that neither CiviGuard nor Nixle have historically strong market shares in the notification industry.
Is something afoot? Perhaps so. The notification and alerting "space" is becoming increasingly important (maybe even interesting), and the big-time players in the industry may be changing. Certainly, the large cell carriers are entering the field. See our recent post on Sprint and the State of California conducting the first pilot of CMAS, the Commercial Mobile Alerting Service. If the timeframes stick, by 2012, emergency managers throughout the country should be able to provide text alerts to cell phones within a selected geographic area...at no charge...through Sprint and other carriers.
Times, they are a'changin', and people, they are a'watchin'.
All the best,
Rick
Saturday, August 28, 2010
ENS and Protecting First Responders
Much has been said about the benefits of emergency notification for ensuring public safety. As Rick and I attend the Fire Rescue International Show in Chicago, however, it occurs to us how little has been said about the benefits of emergency notification for first responder safety. Here are a few thoughts on how ENS provides for a safer responder environment:
Reduced panic.
At times, we hear concerns from emergency managers that mass calling will incite panic among citizens making the situation worse while placing first responders in even greater danger. Though one can imagine certain limited scenarios where this might be the case, empirical research and years of practical system usage by agencies across the country do not support this fear. Instead, clear information provides some measure of comfort to citizens, reducing panic and irrational behavior while creating a safer environment for responders.
Reduced threats.
Danger criminal behavior may occur both during and after critical events such as a disaster. One of the interesting findings post-Katrina was looting and rioting (perhaps more limited in frequency than portrayed in the media) occurred with more frequency several days into the crisis; a key driving factor behind the behavior was uncertainty and a lack of communication on when conditions would change. While analogies aren't perfect here as notification systems did not have power or infrastructure to work immediately after this disaster, the principal nevertheless remains. Poor or no information can lead to erratic and dangerous citizen behavior placing first responders in greater harm.
Appropriate public response.
A study on the San Diego wildfires of 2007 (covered previously in our blog) examined the impact of emergency notification on citizen behavior. A key finding emerged: people who received an alert were more likely to follow evacuation instructions than those who did not. Citizens following these types of instructions create a safer environment for responders, particularly in diminishing problems with access and egress.
Intelligence & situational awareness.
A final way emergency notification technology provides safety for first responders is in the knowledge gained from citizens as a result of an alert. Many examples exist of responder agencies issuing alerts and citizens calling back to identify the whereabouts of a criminal or provide other useful information. As knowledge is power, such intelligence allows for a better prepared response and a less risky operation (at least to some degree).
While ENS is clearly a significant tool for protecting local citizens, it is also a tool for protecting the protectors. With an effective notification program, everyone wins.
Best regards,
Lorin
Galain Solutions, Inc. helps public safety agencies develop effective emergency notification programs. For more information, email: info@galainsolutions.com.
Reduced panic.
At times, we hear concerns from emergency managers that mass calling will incite panic among citizens making the situation worse while placing first responders in even greater danger. Though one can imagine certain limited scenarios where this might be the case, empirical research and years of practical system usage by agencies across the country do not support this fear. Instead, clear information provides some measure of comfort to citizens, reducing panic and irrational behavior while creating a safer environment for responders.
Reduced threats.
Danger criminal behavior may occur both during and after critical events such as a disaster. One of the interesting findings post-Katrina was looting and rioting (perhaps more limited in frequency than portrayed in the media) occurred with more frequency several days into the crisis; a key driving factor behind the behavior was uncertainty and a lack of communication on when conditions would change. While analogies aren't perfect here as notification systems did not have power or infrastructure to work immediately after this disaster, the principal nevertheless remains. Poor or no information can lead to erratic and dangerous citizen behavior placing first responders in greater harm.
Appropriate public response.
A study on the San Diego wildfires of 2007 (covered previously in our blog) examined the impact of emergency notification on citizen behavior. A key finding emerged: people who received an alert were more likely to follow evacuation instructions than those who did not. Citizens following these types of instructions create a safer environment for responders, particularly in diminishing problems with access and egress.
Intelligence & situational awareness.
A final way emergency notification technology provides safety for first responders is in the knowledge gained from citizens as a result of an alert. Many examples exist of responder agencies issuing alerts and citizens calling back to identify the whereabouts of a criminal or provide other useful information. As knowledge is power, such intelligence allows for a better prepared response and a less risky operation (at least to some degree).
While ENS is clearly a significant tool for protecting local citizens, it is also a tool for protecting the protectors. With an effective notification program, everyone wins.
Best regards,
Lorin
Galain Solutions, Inc. helps public safety agencies develop effective emergency notification programs. For more information, email: info@galainsolutions.com.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
First CMAS Pilot Announced
The Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS) could be a game changer for notifications, alerts, and warnings. CMAS is a program under FEMA's IPAWS (Integrated Public Alert and Warning System) through which cell carriers will deliver emergency messages for local, state, and federal authorities via cell broadcast. In effect, public safety officials would have ability to activate, first, text messages to cell phones within a specific geographic area. Later, voice messaging would be added. CMAS would be used for by the feds for Presidential messages, and could be used by locals for imminent threats and Amber Alerts. Cell carriers aren't required to participate in CMAS, but most will. If they don't, an FCC rule requires them to let subscribers out of their contracts.
CMAS is to be fully deployed by 2012. Sprint beat the other carriers to the punch by announcing its first CMAS pilot this week. The pilot will be in San Diego County through a Sprint partnership with the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services and the California Emergency Management Agency. The pilot is scheduled to launch this fall.
Sprint customers in San Diego County won't automatically be able to receive the alerts, even when the pilot begins. Mobile devices will need technology embedded to receive the messages, and most devices don't have it yet. Regardless, announcement of the pilot is progress. We'll all be watching.
For more on the announcement, see the article in Government Technology here.
All the best,
Rick
CMAS is to be fully deployed by 2012. Sprint beat the other carriers to the punch by announcing its first CMAS pilot this week. The pilot will be in San Diego County through a Sprint partnership with the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services and the California Emergency Management Agency. The pilot is scheduled to launch this fall.
Sprint customers in San Diego County won't automatically be able to receive the alerts, even when the pilot begins. Mobile devices will need technology embedded to receive the messages, and most devices don't have it yet. Regardless, announcement of the pilot is progress. We'll all be watching.
For more on the announcement, see the article in Government Technology here.
All the best,
Rick
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