Author: Dabney Weems
The Department of Public Safety’s participation in La Fiesta del Pueblo 2019 did not disappoint as thousands of people packed Fayetteville St. in downtown Raleigh on Sunday, Sept. 22 to celebrate the Hispanic community during Hispanic Heritage Month. DPS representatives were on hand to share information and educate attendees about the many services the department provides.
September is National Preparedness Month, and the festival was a great opportunity for DPS to share its translated life safety messages with the Hispanic community. The Division of Emergency Management distributed information on emergency preparedness, and the State Bureau Investigation had messages regarding online safety. Both agencies, the State Highway Patrol and DPS Human Resources spoke with attendees about career and internship opportunities.
North Carolina ranks 11th in the nation for Hispanic population size, and DPS is committed to its mission to safeguard and preserve the lives and property of all North Carolinians. The department is constantly utilizing various platforms and technologies to reach out to all people throughout the state.
Websites: ReadyNC.org is the department’s website with resources for people to plan, prepare and stay informed during disasters and emergencies, and it is available in Spanish. During times of emergencies it is imperative the public can understand instructions to remain safe.
Helpline: In the event of an emergency or disaster, people can call NC 2-1-1 to receive real-time information and resources. The service helps those affected by an emergency find food, housing, disaster services, health care and recovery information. NC 2-1-1 is also available by texting the event-specific hashtag name to 898211. Spanish speaking operators and services for the hearing impaired are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist.
Social Media: Social media postings are translated in Spanish on social media channels during emergencies. Videos and messages are provided with information relating to preparation, safety and recovery. Gov. Roy Cooper’s emergency briefings are also live tweeted in Spanish.
Printed Brochures: The department provides many of its printed materials translated into Spanish. Brochures on emergency preparedness, victim services, juvenile justice and others ensure the Hispanic community has the resources it needs on hand.
Outreach: Staff from the divisions of DPS are at Hispanic community events with interpreters throughout the year. They share overall safety and safety preparedness information with the public. Additionally, representatives from human resources are also on hand to inform the public about the various career opportunities available with the department.
What’s Next: In the coming months the department will be working to finalize a partnership with UNC-TV to offer real-time interpretative press conferences and briefings during emergencies. Viewers will be able to hear messages in their native language as events take place. Similar to the sign language interpreter on stage, Spanish will be voiced-over during the event as it is aired on UNC-TV.
As technology advances and new media platforms are created, DPS continues to evolve and ensures all North Carolinians are safe and provided up-to-date messages in times of emergencies.