Telecommunications provider Cable & Wireless Jamaica says it is working with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to introduce a pilot test for an emergency alert system using text messaging, this hurricane season.

"The system will allow for the broadcast of text messages to bmobile customers in specific geographic regions, alerting them to localised situations, such as flooding, which may require their prompt action," Chief Operating Officer Jim Pitchford disclosed.

He was speaking at a media briefing to mark the start of the national disaster preparedness campaign, which was organised by the OPDEM.

Pitchford said Cable & Wireless would continue to invest heavily in the development of its telecommunications infrastructure to ensure that Jamaica is ready for any eventuality - especially natural disasters.

Direct response

Pitchford cited last year's launch of Cable & Wireless' Hosting Services Centre as a direct response to the increased risks faced by the local business community from hurricanes, flooding and other natural disasters. "The centre offers local organisations a solution for disaster recovery and business continuity management as well as a means of ensuring access to their vital information and IT infrastructure," he said.

Mr. Pitchford also disclosed that for the second year in a row, Cable & Wireless would be the major sponsor of the ODPEM's public education campaign, which will cover television, radio, newspaper, brochures and a disaster preparedness exposition, planned for June 23, in Portmore, St. Catherine.

The company has also prepared for the 2007 hurricane season, by having completed its annual review of disaster preparedness plans and embarked upon the training of critical personnel who would be called upon to execute these should the need arise.