The New York City Office of Emergency Management recently launched a Facebook Page to help keep the more than 2 million NYC Facebook users up to date on emergency information, community event listings and volunteer opportunities. Development of the page is the result of a preparedness poll in which more than 50% of people said they use Facebook to stay informed on events around the city.

“OEM’s use of technology to serve the citizens of New York City is an excellent example for other cities and emergency management organizations to follow,” said Chris Kelly, Chief Privacy Officer and Head of Global Public Policy at Facebook. “We’re very pleased that Facebook can play a role in keeping New Yorkers informed and safe.”

Around 450 users have already become fans of the OEM page, which features weekly tips about safety and health around the city. There is also a listing of upcoming events around NYC with the option for fans to confirm their participation in the various fairs, street festivals and forums.

During the press conference, the NYC OEM also announced their presence on Twitter and the “Ready New York” video series on YouTube. By using these various social tools, the OEM has a much greater chance of informing NYC residents should an emergency arise. Now, with so many users taking advantage of Facebook mobile applications, the OEM now has a way to reach people wherever they may be without having to use the NYC Alert program, which incurs higher costs and has incomplete coverage.

Government communication tools like these are great services that can be incorporated into the existing pages of cities and towns around the country, and may be especially useful in more rural areas where mass media isn’t as prevelant.