(Bridgeport, CT – Sept. 13, 2013) – Residents of Bridgeport now can register online for the City’s Reverse 911 system, making it easier for them to receive important information during emergencies.

“The system is an important resource in communicating with residents, particularly during emergency situations,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “We had a hurricane and an epic blizzard in the last 12 months, and it is so essential for people to get timely, accurate information.”

The online form now will make it easier for people to register.

Residents can register at http://www.bridgeportct.gov/rev911

According to Mayor Finch, the Reverse 911 form adds new features that will help the City assist its vulnerable populations during large weather events.

During the hurricane and blizzard, the Emergency Operations Center received calls from residents looking for assistance with medical needs. For example, oxygen condensers have a back-up battery but not enough to make it through an extended power outage. Dialysis patients received help making urgent appointments.

There now is a section in the Reverse 911 form where residents can list medical needs. That information will help Emergency Operation officials coordinate efforts to assist people during emergencies, said Scott Appleby, the City’s director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

As always, the City will continue to utilize its website, social media and work with news organizations and radio stations to get out key information to our communities.

REVERSE 911 can be used for many situations to include:

·        Emergency evacuations

·        Missing person alerts

·        Natural disaster alerts

·        Hazardous material leaks

·        Crime alerts and prevention information

·        Neighborhood emergency situations

·        Sexual predator notifications

·        Homeland security alerts

Bill Kaempffer

Public Safety Spokesman

Bridgeport Police Department