The City of Richmond has launched a new emergency alert system.
The system, launched Thursday, uses new software and will replace the previous emergency notification system, which will no longer be operational.
Residents will need to sign up for the new system in order to receive alerts, which will be sent out in the case of imminent emergencies or disasters that may impact Richmond.
“Our new Richmond BC Alert will improve the city’s ability to notify the public and provide relevant information during an emergency,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie, in a statement.
“Aligned with efforts to improve and enhance other regional public alerting systems, it also enhances council’s ongoing commitment to a safe and resilient city.”
The new system allows subscribers to register up to three email addresses, four phone numbers, two SMS numbers and one text telephone (TTY) number. There is no cost to subscribe, but standard message and data rates may apply and receipt and formatting of the notification is dependent upon the telephone and email provider.
According to the city, the alert system is integrated with Richmond’s existing e-services. This will allow residents to manage and update their Richmond BC Alert account details and notification preferences from the MyRichmond portal, which is also used to register for recreation programs, pay utility bills and get information about garbage and recycling collection.
Residents are able to update their alert account at any time and are urged to check it annually to ensure all information is up-to-date.
The city also sent multiple notifications to subscribers of the previous emergency notification system, informing them of the upgrade and the need to re-subscribe to use the new platform.
To register for Richmond BC Alert, visit richmond.ca/alert. For more information about emergency preparedness, visit www.richmond.ca/emergency.
