Across the country private companies have installed thousands of digital billboards that allow them to display up-to-the minute advertising and information. One large owner and operator of such billboards, Clear Channel Outdoor, recently announced a new partnership with the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) that will allow the agency to leverage the billboards’ technology and provide real time safety communications to area travelers.
This partnership represents the latest step for MEMA, which over the years has demonstrated its commitment to using all available means to keep Maryland residents and visitors informed in the case of an emergency.
San Antonio, Texas based Clear Channel Outdoor has demonstrated its commitment to helping federal, state, and local governments provide their populations with valuable information by sharing its media venues with them.
The company operates 21 digital billboards in the state of Maryland, which receive an estimated 5.4 million views per week.
The Maryland Emergency Management Agency is just the latest government agency to reach an agreement with the company.
According to Clear Channel Outdoor Washington President, Steve Ginsburg, the company believes that its cooperation with the state may help save lives. He was quoted as saying “We are proud to partner with MEMA to help Maryland residents and visitors stay safe during disasters or emergency events.”
The billboards have various potential applications, such as displaying vital public safety information in the case of a natural disaster, asking for public assistance in tracking down dangerous individuals, and even the issuance of Amber Alerts.
MEMA has been particularly savvy as it relates to using media to convey its message. The agency recently launched the Maryland Prepares app, which will provide alerts and other preparedness information to smart phones, and in the past several years has taken to social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, to help keep the populace informed.
