New message format aims to help reduce alert durations in Wisconsin 

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) recently changed its messaging format for AMBER and Silver Alerts in an effort to provide drivers with pertinent information to help law enforcement and families locate endangered children and missing adults with cognitive impairment.

Drivers now traveling past an electronic message board during an alert will receive a description of the vehicle and its license plate number instead of having to call 511 or tune to a local radio station for more information. However, drivers can still utilize these services to receive more information.

“We are hoping this will alert drivers sooner and help law enforcement find these individuals and return them safely to their families,” said Paul Keltner, traffic management supervisor at the State Traffic Operations Center (STOC) in Milwaukee.

WisDOT partners with the Wisconsin Department of Justice and local law enforcement agencies to broadcast alerts that involve a motor vehicle. In 2015, the STOC messaged 45 Silver Alerts and five AMBER Alerts.

“We look forward to continuing this partnership and continually improving how we message during these types of events,” said Keltner.

To sign-up for Silver and AMBER Alert notifications visit http://www.wisconsincrimealert.gov.