PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. (Nov. 26, 2013) -- Out with the old and in with the new.
Picatinny Arsenal's mass communication system E-Notify was recently replaced by a newer system known as Picatinny Alert System.
Everbridge was chosen as the new system vendor to help notify installation employees and their families of pending weather, man-made and natural disasters, and other alerts directly affecting the Arsenal.
The goal is to alert the entire Picatinny Community with greater efficiency and speed.
"Picatinny Alert System greatly increases the way we can communicate with our people," said Installation Emergency Manager Scott Starns.
Enhancements
Picatinny Alert System enables users to send notifications to individuals or groups using lists and locations. This comprehensive communication system keeps everyone informed before, during, and after events whether emergency or non-emergency.
Starns said that the system is so robust that he can send alerts to specific groups or buildings on post in an affected area without the need to alert persons to whom the alert does not apply.
"If I want to alert everyone in building 93 that a water main broke and they need to report to another building for work in the morning I can now do that," Starns said. "If I want to send an alert to all military or all civilians or to the families in housing on post, I can do that, too."
The Picatinny Alert System allows rapid mass communication and can process multiple methods of communication to the workforce in under 10 minutes.
Another benefit is allowing rapid notification in the event of weather-related closures or opening delays. If a weather call is made early (for example, around 4 a.m.), everyone signed up in the system should receive the information before they depart for work.
Other Benefits
The Picatinny Alert System is backed up by two servers, one on the east coast and one on the west. This ensures operability of the system even when a large storm like Hurricane Sandy affects one coast. The back-up server on the other coast allows the installation to maintain communication to the workforce.
The system is secure. The registration email you received (check you inbox using the search term 'Everbridge') will only link to your individual account. Upon registration you will control your data in the system and your personally identifiable information is not accessible by third parties.
The system was tested during last month's installation-wide exercise when the active shooter scenario unfolded on post.
Frequently asked questions
1) Do I have to register?
A) Yes. All personnel assigned to Picatinny Arsenal need to register. It is mandatory to at least register your work data such as building number if a message needs to be sent during the normal work day.
This will ensure that you receive some form of notification. If you choose not to enter personal data you do not have to.
However, you will not receive timely alerts such as weather delays or closings. Supervisors will be accountable for each of their employees registering in the system.
2) Who is monitoring my data?
A) There are only a select few people in the Security Office, part of the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security and a select few in the Network Enterprise Center who will manage the data.
3) How is my data protected?
A) Your data is protected with 128-bit data encryption.
Picatinny Arsenal has to invite you to use the system.
Outsiders cannot join the system.
Each registration email is specific to you and you alone. No two links are the same.
4) How will I get notifications?
A) You determine what means of communication you prefer. However, the primary method is by text message. You can also choose a phone call and an email.
5) What if I don't want to put in personal data?
Personal data is not required, however work data is.
If you do not choose to enter personal data you will not receive important and timely notifications that may provide you with information on various statuses during non-working hours.
6) When will I be notified?
A) You will be notified any time there is an incident that warrants mass communication.
Examples include emergency alerts, as well as weather and man-made or natural disaster information oralerts.
7) How will I know if I am registered?
A) You should have already received an email to register. The system will prompt you to create a custom user name and password.
This should be the only time you need to enter the system other than to change your contact information.
Related Links:
Picatinny plays vital role in largest active shooter simulation on record
Simulated bombs, gunfire accentuate Picatinny active shooter exercise
ARDEC Town Hall covers Hurricane Sandy, sequestration
Picatinny establishes task force for future emergencies in wake of Hurricane Sandy
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