News Summary
Williamsburg has introduced a new emergency notification system, RAVE Mobile Safety, replacing Everbridge and expected to save the city $30,000 annually. This system enhances communication with residents during emergencies using various notification methods, including SMS. Residents are automatically signed up for alerts, and new users can register online. The collaboration with local entities further streamlines communication, showcasing the city’s commitment to improving public safety and resource management.
Williamsburg has officially launched a new emergency notification system named RAVE Mobile Safety on Thursday, May 15, 2025. This new system replaces the previous provider, Everbridge, and is expected to save the city approximately $30,000 annually.
RAVE Mobile Safety is a recognized provider of communication and collaboration technology designed specifically for mass emergency notifications. The implementation of this system will allow the city to communicate with residents effectively during emergencies using various notification methods, including SMS (text messages).
Emergency communications from the City of Williamsburg will originate from a single phone number, 757-520-0703, and will also utilize four short code numbers: 226-787, 672-83, 780-15, and 772-95. Residents will recognize these alerts as they will always begin with the phrase “WBURG ALERT.”
For the convenience of residents, anyone who previously received emergency notifications through Everbridge has been automatically signed up for the new RAVE Mobile Safety system. However, individuals who opted to receive alerts via email will receive a confirmation email prompting them to take action in order to continue receiving notifications.
New users looking to sign up for emergency alerts can do so through the official City of Williamsburg website, williamsburgva.gov/alerts. On this page, residents will have the option to select the specific types of alerts they wish to receive, including, but not limited to, weather updates and public safety notifications. This service is free to the public, though users should remain aware that standard message and data rates may apply.
City officials are urging residents to enhance the effectiveness of the new system by creating a contact card in their smartphones. This card should include the city alert phone number and the established short codes to ensure optimal receipt of messages.
The introduction of the RAVE Mobile Safety system marks a significant advancement in the way the City of Williamsburg communicates with its residents in times of crisis. By leveraging modern communication technology, the city aims to provide timely and accurate information, thereby improving public safety and community response. The financial savings from this transition further emphasize the city’s commitment to efficient resource management.
Prior to the launch of RAVE Mobile Safety, the City of Williamsburg relied on the Everbridge system, which facilitated emergency alerts for various community needs. The switch to RAVE is part of a broader effort to enhance the local emergency management strategy while simultaneously reducing operational costs.
The collaboration between the city and local entities such as William & Mary and the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation also plays a crucial role in this transition, as these organizations also utilize the RAVE Mobile Safety platform. This shared use of short codes further facilitates streamlined communication during emergencies across different sectors of the community.
In summary, the new RAVE Mobile Safety system represents the City of Williamsburg’s commitment to enhancing public safety communications while achieving significant financial savings. Residents are encouraged to engage with the system now to ensure they remain informed and prepared for any potential emergencies.
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Additional Resources
- MSN News: Williamsburg Launches New Emergency Notification System
- WAVY: William & Mary to Test Emergency Notification System
- WTKR: VA, NC Under State of Emergency Ahead of Snow
- Wikipedia: Emergency Management
- Google Search: Emergency Notification Systems
