AtHoc notification options available for emergency communications

  • Published
  • By Meredith March
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  This month's water main break demonstrated the necessity of disseminating urgent information as immediately as possible. Col. Charles Thompson, 66th Air Base Wing commander, would like to remind the Hanscom community of the Command Post's AtHoc initiative, which informs Hanscom personnel of urgent information, base closures and delayed openings via phone call, text message or e-mail. These capabilities are offered through the same mass alert system that provides pop-up notifications to personnel through individual computer workstations.

Personnel interested in utilizing the additional notification capabilities should update their information in the system by providing home or cell phone numbers and email addresses, according to their communication preferences. These individuals will be notified in the event of emergency circumstances like the recent water main break, or between 4 and 5 a.m. in the event of extreme weather.

Instructions for updating contact information in the AtHoc system:

1. Right click the AtHoc icon (purple circle on the right side of the taskbar) and select "Access Self Service."

2. A new Internet Explorer page will come up. Once it's done, click the "My Info" tab and ensure the information is correct.

3. Click the "Devices" tab and update the fields as needed (for Giant Voice just any characters for now). Be advised that each field in which data is provided will be available for notifications, per the commander's discretion. Participants requesting text message alerts should be advised that they will not be reimbursed for any text messaging charges incurred.

4. Click the Save button.

Other options utilized by the base to get the word out quickly to employees regarding the status of emergencies, inclement weather delays or closures include the "pyramid alert" system, the C-O-L-D line, and radio or television news.

Employees and base residents can call the C-O-L-D line at (781) 377-COLD (2653) or visit the Hanscom public Web site at www.hanscom.af.mil for early morning notification.