Euclid Launches Blackboard Connect to Enhance Emergency Preparedness and Communication

PRLog (Press Release) - May 7, 2012 - EUCLID, OHIO – May 7, 2012 –The City of Euclid has launched Blackboard Connect™, a mass notification platform that enhances communication and emergency preparedness, the city announced today. The first community-wide test call will be held on May 8, 2012.
   
Euclid implemented Blackboard Connect so city officials can stay connected to residents and efficiently provide them with direction in the event of severe weather or other urgent situations. Using Blackboard Connect, officials can record and send personalized voice messages to home phones, businesses, local agencies and mobile phones in just minutes. The service also can send email, text messages (SMS) to mobile phones and posts on Facebook, RSS feeds and Twitter channels. Messages can also be sent to TTY/TDD devices for people who are hearing impaired.

“We want to make sure residents receive the information that matters most to them, whether it is an urgent safety notification or an update on a recreation program,” said Bill Cervenik, Mayor of Euclid. “With Blackboard Connect, we have the ability to send important, tailored notifications to residents quickly and efficiently.”

Publicly available primary residential and business phones in Euclid will automatically be included in the system. However, to make sure the city has the most up-to-date contact information, residents should visit the city’s website (www.cityofeuclid.com) and click on the link that says “SIGN UP NOW – SERVICES BY BLACKBOARD CONNECT,” to provide their complete contact information. Users should also manage their message preferences by indicating their preferred mode of contact, language and message topics. Those without Internet access, or who need assistance, are encouraged to call the Mayor’s office at (216) 289-2751. Residents with call blocking services should add (216) 289-2772 to their approved number list to ensure they receive important notifications from the city.  

“Targeted communication is the best way to keep residents safe and allows them to receive the information that matters most to them,” said Ed Miller, president of Blackboard Connect. “With Blackboard Connect, administrators can ensure the right messages get to the right people.”


Additional Information about Blackboard Connect™
Blackboard Connect ™ allows officials to send thousands of messages in minutes, requires no additional hardware, and can be used from any computer with Internet access or telephone. This ensures that administrators can send vital messages from wherever they are located—even if they are evacuated. Additionally, officials receive detailed reports on contacts that did not receive a message, enabling them to follow up through alternative means as needed.
 
*Blackboard Connect Inc. does not sell, lease, share, or rent personally identifiable information (names, addresses, phone numbers, etc.) to any companies or persons outside of Blackboard or its service providers.