It is available in English and French, and can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play.
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French security forces have been on high alert since the November 2015 terror attacks in Paris.
The new service is meant to address numerous problems that came in the aftermath of the attacks in Paris in November.
The terror alert app, called SAIP (Système d’alerte et d’information des populations), will inform users of any attack 15 minutes after the danger has been corroborated by authorities, according to Radio France International.
Although the application was launched for Euro 2016, it will reportedly be developed further after the tournament, as France continues to beef up its security. The alerts will bring in brief descriptions of what has happened and advice on how they can stay safe. Notifications can also be forwarded, allowing “users to be ambassadors for security messages in the case of a major crisis”, the Interior Ministry said.
Despite the threats, the government has made a decision to allow mass open-air screenings of games around the country and these potential “soft targets” worry security experts who say stadiums can provide screening and security but open air “fan zones” are more vulnerable venues.
“‘Things are getting better?’ The creation of #SAIP leaves you thinking that, at least in terms of security, it’s not really the case”, said one Twitter user, referring to President Francois Hollande’s mantra that life for the French is improving.
With the French, British and U.S. governments warning of further possible attacks on French soil, unprecedented security measures have been put in place for the championships, including at “fan zones” where supporters are expected to congregate. Because it’s an official government project, users can rely on the app for information rather than turning to social media where potentially false information could spread.
Ahead of the opening match between the hosts and Romania tomorrow, France also faces the threat of disruption to rail travel due to strikes, while the threat of a walkout by Air France pilots still hangs over the tournament.
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The country is so conscious of the potential of terrorist attacks taking place on French soil during Euro 2016 that the country’s interior ministry has revealed SAIP (iOS, Android), an app to warn those in the country of any incidents.
