SIREN to Replace Swift911 Mass Notification System
https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/SIREN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Coordination of Fire, Disaster, and Emergency Medical Services Enhanced 911 and Public Safety Communications
Tompkins County Announces New Mass Notification System to Keep Community Informed During Emergencies
Tompkins SIREN to Replace Swift911in April Residents Urged to Create Profile in New Platform
Ithaca, NY -Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response has announced that Tompkins County SIREN is now available to all residents and will soon replace the current Swift911 mass notification system. Tompkins SIREN, or Safety & Incident Real-Time Emergency Notifications, is a free service that allows individuals to receive alerts sent from local authorities to stay informed on potentially hazardous situations involving weather, traffic, and other emergencies.
Tompkins County SIREN allows residents to receive alerts via phone, text and email, and answer poll questions that will give local officials critical information during emergency situations.
Individuals who are signed up for alerts can also receive reliable information about the county’s COVID-19 response and other public health notifications.
Individuals who were previously signed up for Swift911 will be automatically enrolled in the new system. However, they are encouraged to create a profile in the new platform so they can identify when and how they are alerted and communicated with before, during, and after emergencies. Residents of Tompkins County who were not previously signed up for Swift911 should sign up for free at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/SIREN or text SIREN to 67283. They can also email SIREN@tompkins-co.org with any questions.
Local villages, towns, and the City of Ithaca will also use SIREN to communicate with residents based on location. For example, the City of Ithaca will use the system for the upcoming spring street cleaning program.
“Tompkins County SIREN strengthens our ability to communicate with residents when it matters most,” said Michael Stitley, Tompkins County Director of Emergency Response. “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.”
Community members are encouraged to sign up for Tompkins County SIREN and input their information and notification preferences at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/SIREN
“Our goal is to have as many people as possible signed up for this resource,” said Community Preparedness Coordinator Geoff Dunn. “Please take a moment to encourage your families, neighbors, and communities to sign up so they don’t miss important updates in the event of an incident or emergency in Tompkins County.”
A list of frequently asked questions about Tompkins County SIREN can also be found at: https://www.tompkinscountyny.gov/SIREN
Contact: Michael Stitley, Director of Emergency Response, or Geoff Dunn, Community Preparedness Coordinator, 607-257-3888.
