JeffCoALert: EMA office launches new system to keep you informed [Video]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – The Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency has introduced a new way to keep you informed about local events, particularly regarding severe weather and road closures.

The new JeffCoALert system will replace the county’s previous Everbridge notification system.

After months of careful preparation, it is now available for you to utilize some of its life-saving features.

One reason for this change is that EMA leaders wanted to better serve the community by offering alerts in multiple languages and various formats.

The JeffCoALert app provides real-time, location-specific notifications via phone calls and text messages. Leaders believe this will be a crucial component of the county’s emergency management strategy. The alerts are available in over 30 spoken languages and more than 60 written languages.

“It’s extremely important if there is a life threatening situation that they receive that information so they can take action,” says EMA Officer Melissa Sizemore. “There is …