USE OF ALERT MAX™ FOR HOMELAND SECURITY, CRITICAL EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

1-2008

(DURHAM, NC January 2008) – Emergency Management Centers (EMCs) throughout the United States require reliable communication methods to notify the public when emergencies occur.  Quixote Transportation Technologies, Inc. (QTT) has been providing reliable roadside communication products for more than 30 years.  In particular, the Alert Max™ broadcasts important information to motorists using portable, changeable message signs and Highway Advisory Radio (HAR).    

The Alert Max is a portable, low power radio station contained on a single, solar-powered trailer.  In addition to audible messages from the HAR, text messages are displayed on a portable, changeable message sign.  Alert Max utilizes an AM radio frequency, reaching motorists in a two to five mile radius.  Nearly all vehicles have an AM radio so it is still the most reliable way to reach the traveling public.  One use of the Alert Max is its ability to assist EMC operations during critical situations related to Homeland Security, severe weather conditions requiring evacuation or other events requiring specific instructions. 

In addition, Alert Max can provide the traveling public with the most current information related to local road conditions, closures, or delays.  Motorists receive travel advisory information by tuning their car radios to the proper predefined frequency and viewing the roadside message boards.  Alert Max is beneficial because the station can be set-up and on the air in minutes for use during critical emergencies.  It also can be utilized anytime for local events such as parades, road construction projects, or other temporary activity that may affect traffic.

Alert Max messages can be changed remotely by computer, and energy is stored in high-performance batteries to provide dependable service around the clock and during extended periods of inclement weather.  It is powered by an environmentally safe solar system with an on-board digital recorder that can preserve audio messages for years with no external power source.  Thus, no fuel, no land-line utilities, no noise, and no maintenance are required, which results in no lost messages.  Even in outdoor storage, Alert Max is charging the batteries so you can be set-up and on the air in minutes. 
    
Many Alert Max stations are already in place across the U.S. and the product is catching the attention of major EMC operations in the East.  One such EMC is considering deployment of over 20 stations; one for each of its defined “regions” as well as multiple stations for larger cities. 

“The main reason agencies deploy the Alert Max is to assist them during critical situations, if and when they occur,” explains Dave Klimko, Territory Sales Manager for QTT.  “And the product is not limited to this application; redirecting traffic because of an accident or relaying messages about a local event are just two of the additional possibilities this product provides.  The Alert Max offers agencies a flexible, reliable method for informing the public, and helps create safer driving environments when you need them the most.”