REGUL8R

I am sending this message to everyone who will listen because I believe it could SAVE COUNTLESS INNOCENT LIVES!

My name is Ian Cofrin. I am a former firefighter. After the Virginia Tech Massacre I proposed a modification to the Emergency Broadcast/Alert System. Almost a year later this life saving technology is still being ignored. I have done extensive research on this matter. I have spoke with firefighters and IT professors, all of whom confirmed that this system is possible using existing technology. I implore you to spread the word, and help implement, this available technology. I believe this would undoubtedly save lives.

Since my original proposal, [“Reverse 911 Text Messaging” - 4/20/2007], many institutions, such as the University of Colorado, have implemented a variation of this system. Yet, to receive SMS alert notifications, an individual must be an affiliate of that institution and register/subscribe for the service. Consequently, this method of utilization, limits accessibility potential and neglects geographic targeting.

I have posted a 5 min. PSA styled video on youtube to explain how this system works.

“Cellular Emergency Alert System” URL: http://youtube.com/watch?v=BPzRNonqnqY

(Film Your Issue 2008 Entry: “How many more will it take?”)

[The following is a summary of the methodology]

Early warnings and efficient communication are powerful tools when it comes to saving lives. Despite all of our technological breakthroughs, the “Emergency Broadcast/Alert System” remains terribly inefficient and outdated.

All over the world, cell phones are quickly becoming one of the most accessible forms of communication technology. Hence, they are an ideal medium for emergency notification. SMS, or text messaging, offers rapid notification delivery with very little bandwidth consumption across cellular networks. Mass text messaging is already being used for “Amber Alerts” and for announcements from your cellular service provider.

Using current technology, we can target emergency broadcasts to wireless network towers, “cells”, in the vicinity of a threat. (i.e. send a warning SMS through all of the cell towers in the target vicinity of a tsunami or hurricane) In effect, the accessibility and efficiency of SMS notification, in conjunction with the geographic delivery precision of “Reverse 911”, would facilitate an Emergency Broadcast/Alert System that is more accessible, efficient, and geographically specific.