News from the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders

Public Information Contacts: Linda Van Zandt / Joanne Vuoso / Lisa Krueger

908.231.7020 publicinfo@co.somerset.nj.us

September 7, 2007

Flood Watch? Hurricane Warning?

Residents Can Get Free E-Mail Bulletins

Wireless Alerts Offered, Too

As the most active part of the hurricane season approaches, the Somerset County Board of Freeholders wants residents to know they can get free e-mail updates about potential weather emergencies and other urgent announcements.

Click here for more information and to sign up. There also is a wireless-alert option.

E-mail bulletins are sent in the event of an emergency or disaster that affects some or all Somerset County residents. This could include natural or man-made disasters, such as a flood or chemical spill, or a public health emergency, such as a communicable disease outbreak.

In times of heavy rain, high winds or snow storms, e-mail weather alerts are sent for the Somerset County area. These include closings or delays that affect the Somerset County transportation program, senior centers and other county services.

“This free e-mail service is part of Somerset County’s overall emergency preparedness program,” said Freeholder Director Robert Zaborowski. “We learned during Hurricane Floyd that people rely heavily on the Internet, in addition to media reports, to stay informed during an emergency. We’re pleased to be able to offer this electronic means of notifying our citizens.”

Since the county launched its free GovDelivery^â email-subscription service in January 2003, a total of 8,449 people have signed up to receive e-mail updates to all subscribable Somerset County documents, which include agendas, minutes, press releases, newsletters, bid notices, foreclosure sales and many others. There are more than 800 subscribers to the Emergency Announcements category. All subscriber e-mail addresses are kept confidential.