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Connecticut Launches Statewide Emergency Alert Mobile App

The “CT Prepares” app will provide information and alerts in emergency situations, as well as help state residents to prepare in advance of an emergency.

(TNS) — NORWALK, Conn. — A freshly-launched mobile application for Connecticut residents will put emergency alerts and preparation tips right at your fingertips.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced on Tuesday the launch of the app, known as “CT Prepares,” which will provide information and alerts in emergency situations as well as help state residents to prepare in advance of an emergency.

CT Prepares can be downloaded to most smartphones, and incorporates and integrates text messaging, email, and social networking, allowing residents to communicate with family members during an emergency. Real-Time notifications including emergency news, state office closings, and public safety messages can be sent directly to the device, providing up-to-the-minute information for residents.

“We are constantly planning and constantly preparing to remain one step ahead of potential emergency situations. This is yet another tool in our goal to be as resilient as we can be as a state,” Malloy said. “As we have seen in past storms and emergency situations, communication is critical. The CT Prepares app will no doubt help us in that effort by providing residents with critical information during emergencies. I encourage residents to download this app to their mobile devices.”

Features of the app include:

  • The ability to send an “I’m safe” message to contacts via email, text, and social networks.
  • View real-time alerts for emergencies, weather and traffic.
  • View current and extended National Weather Service forecasts based on current location.
  • Access Connecticut Emergency Management Agency news and events.
  • View emergency preparation guides for different types of emergencies.
  • Locate Connecticut Emergency Management contacts and other useful emergency resources.
“With just a keystroke, anyone can download the CT Prepares app to their mobile devices and in a matter of a minute, be better prepared for any disaster or emergency they may face,” said Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Commissioner Dora Schriro. “And that’s especially important as we approach the height of this year’s hurricane season in Connecticut.”

The app can be downloaded for free from the iTunes Apple Store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android devices by searching the keyword “CT Prepares.” It was developed jointly by DESPP and Connecticut Interactive.

©2016 The Hour (Norwalk, Conn.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.