AtHoc, 'Giant Voice' alert personnel to critical information

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  AtHoc, an interactive warning system used by government agencies and other civilian companies, allows Hanscom senior leaders to inform base personnel of urgent weather-related information, base closures or delayed openings via phone call, text message or email. These capabilities are offered through the same mass alert system that provides pop-up notifications to personnel through individual computer workstations.

Hanscom officials encourage personnel to utilize this notification capability and note that people can update their information in the AtHoc system by providing home, cell phone and emergency contact numbers and email addresses, according to their communication preferences. These individuals will then be notified when an extreme weather event or other necessary mass notification is necessary.

"It's important to sign up for these notifications because the Command Post can rapidly disseminate critical information to the entire base almost instantly," said Master Sgt. Kristopher Provencher, Command Post Operations NCO in charge.

Instructions for updating contact information in the AtHoc system:

1. On a government computer, click the AtHoc icon (purple circle on the right side of the taskbar) and select "Update my Info."

2. An Internet Explorer page will open. Once it appears, click the "My Info" tab and ensure the information is correct. Next click on the My Device Info Tab and verify or, if necessary, update information.

3. Click the Save button.

Be advised that each field in which data is provided can be used 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.

"AtHoc is a great option that allows us to communicate with a large amount of people in a very small timeframe," Provencher said. "It really is a great way to stay connected."

Other options to get the word out quickly regarding the status of emergencies, inclement weather delays or closures include, Giant Voice, the pyramid alert system or the COLD line and, in cases where base operational status may be affected, the Hanscom Public website.

The Giant Voice public address system on base is used as a mass alert should the base come under attack or during a natural disaster, as was the case recently during a tornado warning. The Giant Voice system can provide voice announcements or siren alerts depending on the situation.

Personnel are encouraged to not contact the command post to get more details during emergencies, but should instead monitor email, AtHoc or the Emergency Management Facebook page.

Employees and base residents can also call the COLD line at 781-225-COLD (2653) for additional weather-related or other information.