What You Need to Know About CT Alert Emergency Notifications

Connecticut’s Emergency Alert System: CT Alert and Its Role in Public Safety

Connecticut has taken significant steps to ensure that residents are well-prepared for severe weather and public safety emergencies, particularly as the hurricane season approaches. Governor Ned Lamont highlighted the state's efforts during a recent interview with MSNBC, referencing the deadly flooding that occurred in the Naugatuck Valley last August. He emphasized the importance of being ready for major storm damage and stressed the need for proactive measures.

One of the key components of Connecticut’s emergency preparedness is the CT Alert system. This statewide notification system allows local 911 call centers to reach residents through various channels, including cellphone, email, and text message. The system is designed to provide critical information about evacuations, safety measures, and general alerts during times of public safety and health emergencies.

CT Alert is powered by Everbridge, a software company that enables participating towns to send out targeted messages. The state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESSP) operates the system and may use multiple methods to reach individuals if they do not receive confirmation that a message was received.

How Effective Is CT Alert?

Despite its capabilities, only less than 10% of Connecticut residents have signed up for CT Alert. However, the system has over 4.8 million contacts across the state, which means it can significantly amplify its reach during emergencies. In an average year, between 3,000 to 5,000 people sign up for the service. This year, approximately 9,000 people have already registered.

Each alert sent through CT Alert is customizable, allowing 911 dispatchers to determine how localized the notification is and how many people it should reach. Last year, the system was used 97 times, while this year it has been activated 25 times. Officials note that there are typically spikes in signups after events such as floods, fires, or other emergencies.

How to Sign Up for CT Alert

Residents can sign up for CT Alert on the official website by providing their name, email address, phone number, and work or home address. Those who have listed telephone numbers are automatically registered for the system. Although the system is available to all towns, its usage depends on the specific 911 centers in each region. Some towns may use more advanced or localized systems, such as Reverse 911.

Even if a town does not actively use CT Alert, registered individuals will still receive statewide and regional alerts. DESSP has access to Whitepages data for landline numbers and purchased cellphone data through Everbridge. However, officials emphasize that signing up directly is the most effective way to ensure timely updates.

Registered data can be disclosed to third parties for emergency notification purposes or as required by law, according to the CT Alert FAQ page.

How Does CT Alert Compare to Other Systems?

CT Alert is designed to warn residents preemptively before danger becomes imminent. While some notifications are sent out for unexpected threats, others are issued for incoming dangers. Another commonly used system in Connecticut is Reverse 911, which allows local authorities to reach specific neighborhoods, zones, or towns by contacting registered landlines and cellphones for localized threats.

Nationwide systems, such as FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert & Warning System or AMBER alerts, are tailored regionally by local law enforcement. These systems notify the broader public about specific emergencies, such as natural disasters or missing children, often using radio and TV broadcasts in addition to cellphones.

By offering a combination of statewide and localized alerts, Connecticut’s emergency notification systems aim to keep residents informed and safe during critical situations.