BOULDER, Colo. —  Today, the City of Boulder launched a new webpage for public safety information about ongoing or emergent incidents that are localized or do not rise to the level of the activation of the Emergency Operations Center. Starting with the next incident, this type of public safety awareness information, which has historically been released over the city’s social media accounts, will now also be provided, in reverse chronological order with dates and times, on this webpage: bldr.fyi/publicsafetyupdates. This will give community members a place to go on the city’s website if they become aware of an incident they wish to follow without having to utilize social media.

“Social media is constantly changing, and the city recognizes that emerging societal factors are affecting our community’s interest in and ability to use third-party platforms,” said Sarah Huntley, director of Communications and Engagement. “Our digital and public safety teams have been following this trend carefully, and we’re taking several concrete steps to make more information readily available to those who want it.”

In addition to today’s launch of the public safety updates webpage, the city also plans to implement a city information mobile app later this year, which will allow the city to share awareness-type public safety messaging when specific incidents are occurring. When the app launches, the city will publicize this option broadly.

While these additional communication tools do not replace the city’s presence on social media during public safety incidents, these new options reflect significant changes to the city’s communications practices.

“We’re optimistic these additions will increase the level of service and awareness to our community, and we are excited to roll them out,” Huntley said.

The awareness information provided on the new public safety updates webpage is in addition to – and not a substitute for – the city’s emergency alert systems. In situations where a large-scale emergency is occurring or there is a need to provide specific guidance about urgent actions community members should take, the City of Boulder and Boulder County use emergency alerts, sent by text and phone, to alert those who might be in harm’s way.  Here’s where to find more information about emergency alert systems and how to sign up.