County EMO urges public to download app for emergency alerts

Press Release, Orleans County Emergency Management Office

The Orleans Aware App provides alerts on emergencies, and also other health and safety information.

ALBION – The storms that ripped through Orleans County this week, including the tornado in the Town of Shelby, point out the need for residents to be able to receive real time emergency alerts, according to Scott Buffin, Deputy Director of Orleans County Emergency Management.

Orleans County Emergency Management joined the National Weather Service (NWS) yesterday to complete a damage survey from the tornado. NWS reported the tornado had a rating of EF1 with an estimated peak wind of 105 mph, a path length of 1.20 miles and a width of 200 yards.  Orleans County volunteer fire departments answered nearly 200 storm-related calls during the weather events.

“First, we are very thankful that such serious storms, including the tornado, did not lead to any serious injuries or deaths,” said Buffin.  “We also want to recognize the great work of the county’s first responders and emergency personnel, including those in the Orleans County 9-1-1- Communications Center who fielded a tremendous number of calls and did a great job directing resources. This was a team effort that continues as we deal with the aftermath of the storms.”

Buffin said the county’s Emergency Management Director Justin Niederhofer has made direct communication with residents a priority of his office, recognizing the importance of sharing information quickly in emergency situations. That is what led to the development of the Orleans Aware app to their smartphones.

The app provides alerts and other real-time information during emergency situations while also serving as a resource for other health and safety information. The app is available by clicking here.

Buffin also encouraged residents to follow Emergency Management on Facebook (click here).

“These are free communication vehicles that allow us and other agencies to quickly push out notifications as situations develop and change,” said Buffin.  “Do yourself and your family a favor and download the app and follow us on Facebook so you are prepared for the next emergency situation.”