I have been lucky enough to be in a couple shows that are utilizing systems for updating us about impending weather and other emergencies. The first show I saw this take place was in Ft. Worth. We received text messages or voice mail messages letting us know of the storms and how the show would delay the opening of tents until the storm had passed. It was AWESOME. (not sure what system they used)
Now my upcoming show in Omaha will be doing something similar with http://www.rainedout.com . All I had to do was put in my info with my cell number and I will get texts during the show if there has to be emergency evacuation due to the weather (last year we got hit with 80mph straightline winds and the staff was running to all of our booths to get us to close down and evacuate to the basement) This year sounds like this system will be quite helpful.
All shows should look into this.
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It does not appear to have any fees other then what your cell phone may charge for text messages. And since it is only for the show you sign up for, if the show is not sending out messages then you won't get any.
As for the weather radio, I have one as well. But my weather radio does not tell me if there is a delay in opening the show (or early closure) due to rain, snow or wind.
As another survivor of the '08 Omaha show, I would like to know if there is a fee for this one-time sign up and if you have to cancel the agreement after the show? I agree totally that Ft. Worth's system was awesome this year and last year!
Also, everyone should see if their cell phone provider (e.g. Verizon, etc.) has weather radar capability. My cell phone radar (WeatherBug, but Accuweather is better) has saved my tent, work and myself many times, including at Omaha (I saw the severe weather system on my cell phone radar one hour before the verbal warnings and was able to get as ready as was possible). The cost should be around $6/month. A great deal!
Actually this sounds great. Thanks for sharing as I have never heard of this. There are many times I would have appreciated a heads up if a show were to be rained out, due to weather and some of the people wait until 6:00 a.m. to make an announcement. Sometimes its a little too late when set up starts at 6:00 or 7:00 and you have a journey to make. Will pass it along to other show coordinators.
Replies
As for the weather radio, I have one as well. But my weather radio does not tell me if there is a delay in opening the show (or early closure) due to rain, snow or wind.
As another survivor of the '08 Omaha show, I would like to know if there is a fee for this one-time sign up and if you have to cancel the agreement after the show? I agree totally that Ft. Worth's system was awesome this year and last year!
Also, everyone should see if their cell phone provider (e.g. Verizon, etc.) has weather radar capability. My cell phone radar (WeatherBug, but Accuweather is better) has saved my tent, work and myself many times, including at Omaha (I saw the severe weather system on my cell phone radar one hour before the verbal warnings and was able to get as ready as was possible). The cost should be around $6/month. A great deal!
Larry Berman
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