Back to Basics

Back to Basics

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Things are subject to constant development, progress, and change, brought about by changing times, technological possibilities, or otherwise, they end up buried by time. However, all these things arise from some foundations that represent a step forward at the time of their creation and, given their use, perfectly meet all needs. It is not different with mass warning systems. What started with a pure sound is now being transferred to a picture; what was analogue becomes digital, and what was motorised is electronic. Since constant evolution is natural, why then a new back-to-basics approach?

Being “smart” is not enough. Be clever.

Because even everything may not be enough. Protection of the population of any country requires top-notch communication, technological background, security, and hundred per cent reliability. First and foremost, it must provide a warning that reaches anyone anywhere at any time. Emergency communication channels must therefore be expanded, not replaced. What exactly does that mean? An acoustic warning has always been the cornerstone of mass warning, and technology and new warning methods have only been added. In many cases, this principle held true until the very cornerstone of the system, sirens, slumped below the surface of this imaginary edifice.

The acoustic form of warning produced by electronic sirens has been taken over by apps that are supposed to warn residents of impending threats – warning messages that pop up on information panels or displays of smart devices. These methods are an excellent way to spread awareness of imminent danger, attract attention and, if necessary, provide the required information or procedures on how to behave during a particular situation. They work perfectly well under the right circumstances but still leave room for the fierce controversy caused by the question – what if?

electronic sirens
civil protection

So… what if?

Mobile applications rely on most of the population having smartphones. But what if they don’t? Moreover, they can thoroughly and reliably function only with a constant Internet connection. And even if they only work via a mobile network, it is necessary to consider that not every place is covered with a good signal and not every mobile phone is on 24 hours a day. If we are also to reckon with critical situations, it should be noted that there may be a situation when the entire system goes down. What then? However, these “holes” in the path of the warning signal can be patched acoustically.

A recent striking example where a mass warning consisting almost entirely of a mobile app was undermined may be the case of flash floods and torrential rains in Germany in 2021. Warnings of danger reached many residents too late, and the lack or complete absence of sirens caused massive damage to property and increased loss of life.

Want to protect your country? Say it louder!

The national warning system is part of civil protection, and care must be taken about its scope and coverage if everyone is to be protected. The Telegrafia company knows that, when thoughtfully implemented, an acoustic warning system is the only way to convey the necessary information everywhere and to everyone at any time – that’s why it is built on its foundations. You’ll be informed wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. Do you want to protect your country? Say it louder. Say it to us.

The article was written by

Róbert Jakab

Robert is like a moving photograph – because he is like a video. He can capture 60 frames per second. Whenever something happens, he records it. Currently, he’s working on smaller videos and hoping to make a feature film one day and then its sequel. Telegrafia 2: Monkey Power

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