The new system has expanded features for a changing communication age.
“The city had an older notification system,” said Tegeler, who noted it only served land lines.
The new system provides information through text message, cell phone, land line and email, said Tegeler.
“You get to pick your preference for how you receive a message,” said Tegeler. “If you prefer to receive a message by text first and then email, you can choose that. You can still do a standard phone call if you like.”
Tegeler said once a message has been sent from the system to the primary message option, the recipient must respond by text, email or answer the call to stop additional messages to their secondary messaging choices.
To receive messages, residents and businesses must sign up for the system by logging onto the city's website at effinghamil.com.
From the main page, information is available that prompts the visitor through the sign-up process. Tegeler said those who do not use a computer can call her office at 217-342-5368.
From an emergency management perspective, Tegeler was thrilled to have additional resources to assist the area.
“If we can reach you, we can alert you to any issues in the city,” said Tegeler.
Common issues that the system will be used for are boil-water orders, traffic situations or serious crimes.
“In the old days, we would be going door to door to get information out,” said Tegeler.
©2015 the Effingham Daily News (Effingham, Ill.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
