This week, Twitter came out
with their newest addition to the “Twitterverse.” Now, if there is every an
emergency or natural disaster in your area, you will receive a tweet explaining
the current situation. “Twitter Alerts” will notify you directly to your mobile
phone by means of text or push notification if there is ever a crisis.
To jump on the mass alert
bandwagon, many organizations have already signed up to be a part of this new
system. Organizations such as FEMA, American Red Cross, and even the New York
City Fire Department have joined to help those, which may not have access to a
television or a computer, become aware of emergencies. These organizations are
among over 60 using Twitter Alerts. International groups are also some of those
that have come together to use this new tool.
There are different groups that
have become a part of this from many states, but in order for the user to
target their desired area, Twitter allows you to customize your alerts so you’ll
be able to receive whatever you want.
For more information, or to see a full list of those organizations involved, click the link below.
http://www.cnn.com/2013/09/25/tech/twitter-emergency-tweets/index.html
I agree think its a good idea! But makes me wonder if it could possibly cause more chaos in a situation too. I mean how much of the story can you really get in 140 characters? It might be good to get some general information out but I think there will be a need for greater depth and explanation in many disaster situations.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of this; I always find myself checking twitter whenever I hear of something happening. It would be a lot more convenient to be notified without having to search numerous different keywords and tags! Not only would it get the word out about the disaster, but it could also help victims connect with those of help to them. All around, this seems like a great idea; I'm sure there will be glitches but that is always to be expected, and with time it will all straighten out.
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