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State officials hope a new mobile app can better connect state residents to information and resources during emergencies.

The app, CT Prepares, was introduced Tuesday by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy at a press conference at the state emergency operations center. It is available for Apple and Android devices for free and allows users to read how to prepare for emergencies, connect with utility companies, check weather reports and get the latest updates from state officials.

"Since I became governor we have had six presidential disaster declarations for blizzards, hurricanes and tropical storms and through these experiences we have learned how to improve preparedness and how to communicate well with all levels of government," Malloy said.

Natural disasters in recent years, including Storm Sandy and Tropical Storm Irene, left many in the state without power for days. In other cases, snowstorms also knocked out power and prevented people from driving.

The new app features an "I am Safe" option that users can click to notify contacts or social media sites of their safety. A "resources" option tells users about open pharmacies and other services that are available during or after emergency situations. Other features include real-time alerts, National Weather Service forecasts, emergency preparation guides and access to press releases.

The app will work almost to its full capability without the need of a Wi-Fi connection, said Robert Swartz, the director of operations at Connecticut Interactive who jointly developed the app with the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

Swartz said the app came at no cost to the state. He said it was a "self-funded" model that 29 other states have followed and is part of the digital e-government service with Connecticut Interactive, a service owned by NIC Inc.

"While we have no major storms upon us it is critical that we take steps to prepare for any contingency that might present itself, and clearly the tropical season is in full force," Malloy said. He added that 90 percent of tropical storms occur between Aug. 15 and late October.

"While we have not faced a natural disaster this past year, nor is there a current threat, now is not the time to be complacent. We must always be prepared in the event that another disaster visits our state," Malloy said.

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Autor(en)/Author(s): Sandra Gomez-Aceves

Quelle/Source: Hartford Courant, 09.08.2016

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