By Brett Tannehill, Alabama Public Radio
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wual/local-wual-653622.mp3
Montgomery, AL – On Wednesday (11/28), Alabama unveiled a new computer program intended to help local governments better respond to emergencies and disasters. The Alabama Department of Homeland Security teamed up with Google Earth to create Virtual Alabama, which uses satellite imagery and aerial photography to map the entire state down to the finest details, including fire hydrants, gas lines and even public-use security cameras inside schools and in various cities. The program is the first of its kind in the nation. Alabama Public Radio's Brett Tannehill spoke with Homeland Security Director Jim Walker at Wednesday's unveiling.
OUTRO: Any agency with a ''dot-gov'' web address can join the Virtual Alabama program at no cost. Mmore information is available at the Alabama Department of Homeland Security's website -- www.dhs.alabama.gov.