How can you prepare?
3 Simple Steps

1. Get a Kit

2. Make a Plan

3. Get Informed

Emergency Communication

During emergencies and disasters, the importance of our communications system, including telecommunications, broadcast, cable, and satellite systems, becomes unmistakably apparent. We use our phones to call 9-1-1 or to call our family members to make sure they are safe. We turn on our televisions and radios to get the latest information updates. While we have come to rely on these means of communication, major emergencies and disasters can put a strain on them.

During a major emergency or disaster, Emergency Management officials will work to provide timely and accurate information and instructions to the public. There are several components essential to emergency communications:

· 9-1-1 Communications Center – Dispatchers will provide emergency calls and information to emergency responders.

· The Emergency Alert System (EAS) - County officials can send instant messages or alerts with important emergency information via radio and television stations.

· REVERSE 9-1-1 – County officials can send recorded audio messages to telephones within a specified geographic area or to a pre-programmed list of contacts. (Note: This feature is coming soon!)

· Media – News releases and media interviews assist in providing timely and accurate information to the public.

· Emergency Alert website link: www.ycdes.org – Important information can be viewed on this link.

· Emergency Public Information Line: 717-840-2988 – Provides recorded emergency information.

· Emergency vehicles' public address systems (also called Route Alerting) - Emergency vehicles are equipped with public address systems, which can be used to make announcements to citizens.