City of Loogootee Launches SMS Public Safety Alert System

This service represents a significant step in enhancing real-time, direct communication within our community. The system will be used to deliver timely alerts regarding urgent matters that could impact residents, including but not limited to:

• Tornado warnings
• Boil orders and other public utility advisories
• Traffic accidents impacting major routes, and other public safety incidents
• Public health notices and safety notifications impacting the community

A key feature includes the automated delivery of official Tornado Warnings issued directly by the National Weather Service (NWS) specifically for the Loogootee area.

How to Sign Up and Stay Informed

Staying informed during emergencies is now easier than ever. Signing up for these vital alerts is a simple, two-step process designed to ensure your consent and activate your service:

1. Visit the City Website: Go to loogootee.in.gov/sms. On this page, you will find a straightforward webform where you can enter your phone number. You will also need to check a box consenting to receive text messages from the City and agreeing to the privacy policy and terms of service.
2. Confirm Your Subscription via Text: After submitting the form, you will immediately receive a text message from the City's alert system (this may take a few moments). This message will ask you to reply "YES" to opt-in and confirm your subscription to receive City of Loogootee Public Safety Alerts. This crucial second step verifies your consent and activates your alerts.

Important Information for Subscribers

• Supplementary Service: This SMS alert system is intended as a supplementary notification method only. It should not be considered a replacement for other essential official alert sources such as NOAA Weather Radios, local television/radio broadcasts, outdoor warning sirens, and official NWS information channels. We strongly encourage residents to utilize multiple alert sources during emergencies for comprehensive information.
• Message Frequency & Rates: The frequency of messages will vary depending on the occurrence of urgent events. You will only receive alerts when there is critical information to share. As with most text message services, standard message and data rates may apply depending on your wireless carrier plan. The City is not responsible for any charges incurred. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.
• Opting Out: The service includes security measures designed to help ensure message content is appropriate and relevant for public safety purposes only. You have full control over your subscription. You can cancel the SMS service at any time by texting "STOP" to the Service phone number. You will receive one final message confirming your unsubscribe. You can easily re-subscribe later by texting words like "START", "YES", or "UNSTOP" to the same number.
• Getting Help: If you are experiencing issues with the messaging program or need assistance with the service, you can reply with the keyword HELP for support information.

The City strongly encourages all residents to take a moment to sign up today to receive these important public safety alerts directly to your mobile phone. Subscribing is a proactive step to help you and your family stay safe, informed, and connected with your community during critical times.

For Questions or Concerns

If you have any questions regarding the SMS alert service, including privacy concerns or issues with the messaging program, please contact the City of Loogootee Mayor's Office by emailing mayor@loogootee.in.gov or calling (812) 295-1000.

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