Everbridge delivers fourth of July alerts to communities across the country

As countless communities around America gear up to host parades, concerts, cookouts, and fireworks this July 4^th, many of them will be keeping revelers safe and informed this year with Everbridge text alerts. Weeks ahead of the festivities, many towns large and small began encouraging residents to sign-up for notifications, by simply texting their Zip Code or a unique Keyword to 888777. Take the United States Park Police, for example, which safeguards the national parks and monuments around Washington, D.C. Visitors heading to the National Mall on Independence Day are urged to text JULY4DC to 888777 for traffic detours, parking restrictions, and public transit updates. Park Police recently used keyword opt-in for the National Cherry Blossom Festival in March. Columbus, Ohio, folks will be treated to the largest fireworks display in the state. Over 400,000 people are expected to gather in downtown Columbus to celebrate the 38th annual Red, White & BOOM! – billed as “the most recognized firework display in the Midwest.” Attendees are being asked to text RWB2018 for event alerts. Columbus recently used Everbridge alerts for the nationally recognized Stonewall Pride Parade in June. And in the birthplace of our nation, Philadelphia, PA is hosting its week long Welcome America festival, which includes concerts, fireworks, block parties, and educational activities. Described as “the nation’s largest, free, family-friendly Independence Day celebration,” the City of Philadelphia as expecting hundreds of thousands of partygoers, and is encouraging everyone to text AMERICA to 888777 for safety messages. Philadelphia recently used Everbridge for the Eagles Super Bow Championship parade, and is gearing up for the upcoming Philadelphia Marathon. Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the March For Our Lives rally in Washington, the 2017 Presidential Inauguration, and Super Bowl 50. It is also regularly used during severe weather situations, including hurricanes in Florida, wildfires in California, and volcanic activity in Hawaii.