The City of Penticton has joined the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen with using Voyent Alert for its emergency notifications.
The system has been used by the RDOS since 2021 when their previous alert provider pulled out of Canada.
The new-to-Penticton system will provide any registered users real-time notifications through the Voyent app, as well as by email, text message or phone call.
鈥淭he safety of our community is of the utmost importance,鈥� said Mayor Julius Bloomfield in a press release. 鈥淏y implementing this new tool, we will ensure that residents and visitors can receive critical information quickly and reliably when it matters most.鈥�
The system is free to use, but requires residents to sign up and register anew, even if they had previously been subscribed to the city's old text alert service.
While the system will be used in Penticton only for emergency alerts during situations such as floods or wildfires, the RDOS also uses Voyent for providing alerts for public hearings and other non-emergency matters that impact residents.
One of the benefits of the new provider is alerts can be issued and received by residents or business owners in specific locations.
鈥淭his is a crucial communication tool that will support our efforts to keep the community connected and informed during emergencies,鈥� said Amanda Newell, the city's emergency program manager. 鈥淏eing able to deliver location-specific information directly to our residents and visitors strengthens our emergency response and helps everyone make informed decisions for their safety.鈥�
Those looking for more information about the system or for help signing up are invited to attend the Council Open House (May 6) from 4-7 p.m. at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre.
To learn more, and to sign up for Voyent Alert!, go to Penticton.ca/subscribe.
