Emergency System is needed

It's storming. Severe weather is quickly approaching. You're hanging on weatherman Jay's every word while watching Channel 32 when the power goes out, leaving you with little information about the danger that may be headed your way. But soon, if your phone's working, you will get the extra information you need. We're excited about a progressive new emergency management system approved recently by Oldham County Fiscal Court that would call all registered telephone numbers in the event of an emergency. Residents will be able to register their home numbers, cell phone numbers and other additional lines on a Web site. This isn't just limited to severe weather, and in many instances may not be as effective in that instance given the temperament of Kentucky's climate and the time of day. This system would also notify residents of any disaster, natural or otherwise - including train derailments and chemical spills - and it would offer safety recommendations to every number in the phone book. Though we believe this system will prove a very effective tool for protecting residents and ensuring the safest environment possible, residents shouldn't get too comfortable with receiving a phone call every time an emergency happens. Uncontrollable circumstances create difficult situations at times. Just take a look at the way the Oldham County Schools' phone notification system worked the day schools released early for an incoming ice storm. Though calls were made to every number on that list, many parents were at work, and many children were faced with being sent home to an empty, possibly locked house. Our advice? Stay as informed as possible about any potential emergency by watching the news and checking media Web sites. And then, when the phone call comes, you'll be even more prepared for what might be coming your way. Any proactive effort to keep our residents safe earns an A-plus in our book.
The views expressed in this editorial are endorsed by The Oldham Era's six-member editorial board.