PSNI set up new text alert system

The system, which has been rolled out across Lurgan, Craigavon, Portadown and the rest of E District, will provide a quick and easy mechanism for police to alert the public to important local issues.

Registered users will receive live text alerts (SMS) of incidents in their local area and should respond by phoning 0845 600 8000 with information.

Constable Colin McCrum, E District Community Safety said: “We are always looking at ways to link in with the communities that we serve, particularly when it comes to preventing and detecting crime. The alert system had been shelved for a time due to technical issues, but as a result of listening to community feedback and having found a new technology provider, I’m delighted to say that we have been able to reinstate the system.”

The initiative makes use of mobile phone technology, which will enable police to send text messages to individual groups of people alerting them to a particular incident, or event.

Around 1550 members of the public are receiving alerts about issues that matter to them. The scheme also enables alerts to be issued to relevant groups so that users will not be inundated with information that doesn’t relate to them. A number of groups have already been set up, for example scrap and metal dealers, members of the rural community, local businesses and local churches. Anyone interested in joining the scheme can contact Sgt Wendy Walker or their local neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 600 8000.