Public Service Announcement: Severe Weather Alerts

The Issue

How can cities help the public when severe weather strikes? Although traditionally thought to be used for advertising only, digital billboard technology provides a versatile medium to broadcasting public service announcements (PSAs), including weather alerts.

The Solution

The Fargo-based Newman Outdoor often donates time on their digital billboards to PSAs. This was especially the case when the Red River flooded in April 2009. Newman Outdoor was prepared to handle the city’s needs to organize and distribute vital information. Newman Outdoor, trained to create their own content, responded without delay, proving the display’s worth to a city in distress. Digital billboards across the city directed officials, flood workers, and evacuees safely and reliably.

Other Uses for PSAs

The company put up their first digital billboard in Fargo, North Dakota, in 2008. Since then, Newman Outdoor has pushed the envelope when it comes to content creation and informing the community, and various other services.

Newman Outdoor also creates and uses dynamic content for AMBER™ Alerts, FBI bulletins, election day results, along with severe weather alerts, allowing them to intercede on behalf of the public’s interest.

Equipment Description

Valo® Digital Billboard Advertising
Full-color Display
Matrix: 240 x 888
Pixel Spacing: 16 mm OT
Approx. Dimensions:
13' 7" x 47' 8" (4.2 m x 14.5 m)
Controller: Valo® Play
DB-2110-240x888-18-FF