Using TOPS Web Sites to communicate in an emergency

If you live in an area of the country affected by high winds, floods, tornadoes or even hurricanes, we suggest a TOPS Community Web Site with a Storm Center as a valuable tool for communication and a great way to get a handle on emergency issues. Here are a just a few of the ways communities use their Interactive Web Sites to share information with residents, helping them get through some very anxious times.

• Severe Weather Module: Newcomers especially can be caught off guard. Help residents new to your area by providing the location and directions to area shelters and facilities for pets.
• Message Board Topic: Use your Community Web Site to share advice on the proper steps to take and crucial items to have on hand in case of a major storm.
• Hot Link Category: Include links to local and state government agencies and media web sites for easy access to maps, directions, evacuations routes, and who to contact after the storm.
• eMail Bulletins: eMail bulletins are invaluable as a quick and simple communication tool. Use this feature to send important updates out to residents (also great for residents who don't reside on the property full time!)
• Photo Albums: Use the Photo Album to post pictures of the community so homeowners living away can see the extent of property damage and how your homes and buildings fared throughout the storm.
• eForms / Task Manager: After a storm passes and the damage is done, use eForms to submit maintenance requests and the task manager feature to keep track of the repair process.

Don’t get caught in the middle of the storm! Use your TOPS Community Web Site to keep your residents informed!

By: Jeff Evans
TOPS Web Sales