Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Message delivery options can be categorized into three types based on
PHIN PCA designations:
•
Long text—content rendered in a form appropriate for e-mail, fax, or
Web presentation
Short text—content rendered in a form appropriate for SMS and pagers
•
•
Voice text—content rendered in a form appropriate for voice deliv-
ery or automated voice delivery by telephone
At present, the RTBP makes provisions for message delivery as long and
short text. Sahana Messaging Module currently has an e-mail and SMS push
function, but it will be adapted to include a Web-posting function compliant
with CAP and EDXL.
14.3.4 Message acknowledgment
In some cases, it may be advisable or desirable to include a back-channel for
message acknowledgment from recipients. This would require a communi-
cation link back to the message delivery system to collect acknowledgment
receipts and present these as a report.
14.4 Common Alerting Protocol (CAP)
Common Alerting Protocol or CAP is a nonproprietary digital message for-
mat that uses XML to standardize the content of alerts across all types of
hazards and communication systems. Development of CAP was undertaken
by a group of emergency managers and public safety professionals working
together through the Partnership for Public Warning under the dual objec-
tives to improve interoperability of alerting systems while offering an infor-
mation architecture that would also support and advance best practices in
public alerting.
The CAP format is designed to contain a broad range of information—
the alert message, the specific hazard event, and the appropriate responses.
Effective warning systems need to reach everyone who is at risk, wherever
they are and whenever the event occurs. Yet, they must not alarm people
unnecessarily. Systems must be easy to use, reliable, and secure. An effective
warning message delivered by such a system must be accurate, specific, and
action-oriented. Warning messages must also be understandable in terms
of languages and special needs, with attention to the prior knowledge and
experience of the receivers. It is also critical that times, places, and instruc-
tions are easily understood (CAP Cookbook 2009).
