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For Immediate Release • June 1, 2011
Staff Contact: Dan Eamon, Emergency Manager, 303-651-8433
View the most recent Press Releases.
JUNE 1, 2011 - In preparation of potential flooding this spring and summer, City of Longmont employees are knocking on doors on Friday and Saturday, June 3 and 4 to provide flood information and advice to Longmont residents and businesses who live in areas most vulnerable to flooding - mostly areas in and around the St. Vrain River and Lefthand Creek. The crews also will help residents sign up for City's emergency notification system.
The plan is to pass out flood information brochures which include a flood plain map, provide helpful tips on emergency preparation and to help them sign up for the Everbridge emergency notification system. The Everbridge system alerts people of emergencies in a number of ways including traditional recorded phone messages, text alerts and email messages. Anyone can sign up for the system by visiting www.ci.longmont.co.us/police/massnotification.htm.
Unlike the traditional reverse 9-1-1 style system used by Boulder County and other jurisdictions that only dials home numbers, the Everbridge system automatically dials land and cell phone lines, leaving a voice message, test message or email message based on the users preferences. An emergency message can be left with a subscriber advising them on the nature of the emergency and information on appropriate actions. In an era where home land lines are being replaced by cell phones, this is a notification option that all Longmont residents can use.
During the door-to-door notification, crews also will hand out an updated floodplain map and flood safety tips including
• Prepare an emergency evacuation kit. A gallon sized plastic bag should hold your prescription medications, copies of important documents like your driver’s license, insurance and financial information. A thumbdrive full of important family photos could also be included.
• Get to know your neighbors. You could have neighbors close by that may need some additional help during an emergency.
• Make your family plan. Talk to children about what to do, where to meet, and how to contact each other during an emergency.
• If you rent your home, buy renters insurance.
• The City will notify residents of disasters using the Everbridge notification system. This system can contact you via text message, email or voice making it very versatile. Register at www.ci.longmont.co.us/police/massnotification.htm.
• A Flood Watch means weather conditions make flooding likely – be alert and tune in to local media for details. A Flood Warning means flooding is occurring or will occur. Seek higher ground immediately!
Finally, everyone will be advised to review and/or buy homeowner's and renter's insurance policies and make sure they provide adequate coverage in the event of a flood.
City flood information teams will begin knocking on doors at approximately 9 am and continue to 2 pm on both days.
For more information call 303-651-8601.
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