AtHoc system plays vital role in base notification

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The old adage "information travels fast" holds true for members at this Air Force Global Strike Command base. As the digital age continues to advance, mass communication efforts help alert base personnel of emergencies and urgent information.

The Air Force initiated the AtHoc, or Emergency Mass Notification System, as a method for commanders to mass notify the base populace of any incidents affecting the base.

Notifications can include severe weather watches or warnings, delayed reporting and recalls. The system has the capability to notify members via giant voice, e-mail, desktop pop-up, text message, and work, home or cell phones.

"The quickest, most efficient and cost effective means for making contact is through text messages, so all users who can receive text messages need to ensure their text messaging number is correct," said Senior Master Sgt. Jerry Simer, 509th BW command post superintendent. "Users can update their personal information by logging into any NIPRNET USG computer, and right click on the purple globe in the bottom right hand corner of the desktop, and click on 'Access Self Service' after the website loads."

National Guardsmen and reservist may have an additional purple globe to notify them of other incidents applicable to them.

Under the "Contact Info" tab, members can provide contact numbers for home, work and mobile devices as well as e-mail addresses.

Spouses can also receive the notifications if the member provides the phone number for their spouse in either the home or mobile phone options.

"By adding contact information for their spouse, the member ensures their spouse is notified of any severe weather affecting Whiteman AFB while they are deployed," Sergeant Simer said.

If properly updated, AtHoc ensures Team Whiteman personnel are advised as rapidly as possible of events and conditions affecting them.

For additional information contact the Whiteman AFB Command Post at 660-687-3778.