Millburn Set To Roll Out New Emergency Management System

From Millburn Short-Hills: To ensure that area residents are as informed and prepared as possible in the event of an incident or emergency, Millburn is rolling out a new, enhanced emergency notification system. The system will enable residents of Millburn-Short Hills — and any surrounding communities who participate in the system — to receive up-to-date alerts via their smart phone, email, and other notification options of their choosing.

"We are transitioning from Code Red, our previous alert system, to Swift911, which we feel is better equipped to meet the Township's needs," explained Alex McDonald, the Township's Business Administrator. "Whether we're dealing with a weather event, a natural disaster, or a police emergency, this system will enable our public safety officials to keep our residents fully informed, which will help ensure their safety."

The new system will go into effect on September 1, and residents can enroll online via the Emergency Notification sign-up link on the Township website. Because other towns and communities may also participate in Swift911, the Township is encouraging residents to invite friends, family, and neighbors outside of Millburn to register their information as well. Residents who have signed up for Code Red will continue to receive alerts through August 31, at which time the new system will be rolled over completely. A Swift911 mobile smartphone app is also available.

"It's important to register prior to the end of August, to make sure we have your contact information and know the preferred methods to reach you," said Battalion Chief Thomas P. Pizzano, fire marshal of the Millburn Fire Department, who serves as the project manager overseeing the implementation. "In addition, residents are advised to log in periodically and keep their profiles current with the most up-to-date information."

In addition to emergency notifications, another key feature of the system is its ability to check in on elderly residents, or those with disabilities or special needs. "We can set up the system to call residents at a designated time each day," Chief Pizzano said. "If the system is unable to reach them, a family member or the police can be notified so that they can visit and confirm the resident's safety."

For more information and to register, residents can visit http://www.twp.millburn.nj.us and click "Swift911 Emergency Notification." An article with additional details is also available on the website.

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