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Virginia Beach expands emergency alert system

Posted at 7:55 PM, May 09, 2013
and last updated 2013-05-09 19:55:59-04

Virginia Beach, Va. - The City of Virginia Beach has upgraded the way it can notify citizens during emergency situations.

Their VBAlert system can now offer emergency alerts via text message and e-mail. Previously, the functionality of the system was limited to sending voice recorded messages to landline telephones within city limits.

With more folks ditching their landlines and the inability to get messages when on the go, the city decided to expand the system to include cell phones and e-mails.

Now, anyone can register their cell phone number or e-mail to receive the alerts whether they live in Virginia Beach or not.

Bobbie Almariento, Coordinator of 311 operations for the city, says "You may not necessarily be home when the message is sent. So with those other devices if you have a notification that goes out to your area when you're not home, you can stay informed."

To register for the VBAlert system, click here.