Huntsville-Madison County Emergency Management Agency unveils new website
Published on October 7, 2021
The Huntsville-Madison County Emergency Management Agency (HMCEMA) is inviting the public to check out its new website, which includes the Huntsville area’s best resources for emergency preparedness information.
The organization’s website, madisoncountyalema.gov, features timely information on topics to not only safeguard residents, but also help them prepare for the unexpected. Subjects include how COVID-19 protocols impact community storm shelters, where to find shelters, how to make a disaster preparedness plan and more.
The completion of the website comes just ahead of the start of North Alabama’s secondary severe weather season, which spans November and December. Next month also marks the 32nd anniversary of the EF4 tornado that devastated the Jones Valley area on Nov. 15, 1989, killing 21 people.
“Each part of our new site was designed with users in mind and will hopefully allow our residents to quickly find what they’re looking for,” said HMCEMA Director Jeff Birdwell. “Being prepared can make a world of difference in how a family weathers a storm, and this site has plenty of resources to help you stay ahead of the next disaster or emergency.”
On the new website, residents can sign up for free emergency alerts from both the City of Huntsville and Alabama Saf-T-Net, a weather alert system. The City’s platform sends alert messages via text, voice call or email on relevant topics, including road closures, fires, weather and other emergency notifications.
Drop-down menu options include “Weather,” which links to a map showing the location of all outdoor warning sirens. The “Hazards” menu allows users to learn more about natural, manmade and health hazards and how to prepare for each.
The “Plan & Prepare” link offers preparedness tips and checklists for households, businesses and industries, and special events. There’s also a link that allows members of the public to register a safe room so they can be found quickly in the event of a destructive emergency.
“Information on how the public should prepare and respond to emergencies is always evolving, so we should have an online presence that reflects that,” Birdwell said. “We hope the public will use this information to protect themselves, family members, employees and property. We never know when a disaster will occur, so it’s important to always be ready.”