TSTT launches emergency service

The Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) on Monday launched an emergency messaging service that will alert customers on Bmobile's network about natural disasters.

Lisa Agard, TSTT's executive vice-president of mobile services, told reporters the system will reach almost all of the country because of TSTT's huge customer base, which exceeds 800,000 prepaid customers and about 120,000 postpaid customers.

"There is absolutely no question of any national of Trinidad and Tobago not being able to receive an emergency SMS (short messaging service)," she said.

National Security Minister said the government chose TSTT for the service because it is the country's major telecommunications provider as well as the parent company of Bmobile.

"I am advised that this is how it is intended to work. Once the ODPM releases an advisory, it will first go to members of Government and the first-response agencies. It is intended that the ESMS will cover effectively both islands of our republic.

"If there is an emergency or disaster specific to either of the two islands, then the broadcast will facilitate only that specific territory," Sandy told reporters.

The agreement between TSTT and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), TSTT, will allow Bmobile to absorb the cost of sending the messages.