Privacy Policy

Last Update: 02/02/2025

This privacy policy applies to the Cork Safety Alerts website, and the Cork Safety Alerts mobile application(s).

This privacy policy has been compiled to to give you an insight as to how we collect and process your data. Privacy is of the utmost important to us, and we’ll do everything in our power to protect yours!

Please read our privacy policy carefully to get a clear understanding of how we collect, use, protect or otherwise handle your Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with our website and mobile apps.

We’ve made some changes to our Privacy Policy to comply with the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) which came into effect on May 25th 2018. It’s important to note that nothing has changed in terms of how we gather, and process your data. We’ve given you more control over how your data may be processed and used.

What personally identifiable information do we collect from the people that visit our website or use our mobile application?

• We ONLY collect personally identifiable information when you submit a Contact Us form on our website, or Incident Submission form on our website.
• Location Services: During regular use of our mobile application, we request that location services are enabled. We use location services when you submit an incident to us, and you opt to share your location. We use the GPS on your device to determine your location. Once location services is enabled, you may in the future also receive alerts which are sent via geolocation. This means we can push alerts to users within the vicinity of a particular issue, or event.

When do we collect personally identifiable information?

• We collect information from you when you fill out a form, open a support ticket or enter information via forms on our website, or mobile apps.
• Provide us with feedback on our products or services.
• Location Services: We only collect location based information when you opt to provide it to us, on first load of the mobile application or, opt to send your location along with an incident submission.

Information automatically gathered by us:

Information automatically gathered could (but not always) include your web request, browser type, IP address, referring URL, domain names, and pages viewed including the date and time of your request. 

The OneSignal SDK automatically collects and that are available to target audiences in Segments via Push Notifications. Information automatically gathered by OneSignal (our push notification service supplier) can be found here; this information is non-personally identifiable information. 

How do we use your information? We may use the information we collect from you when you register, start a subscription, sign up for our newsletter, respond to a survey or marketing communication, surf the website, or use certain other site or mobile application features in the following ways:

• To personalise your experience and to allow us to deliver the type of content and product offerings in which you are most interested.
• To improve our website in order to better serve you.
• To allow us to better service you in responding to your customer service requests.
• To quickly process your transactions/subscriptions.
• To send periodic emails regarding your account and/or other products and services.
• To follow up with them after correspondence (live chat, email or phone inquiries.)
• Location Services: We may use geolocation information to provide location based alerts, relative to our users. We also use geolocation when you opt to submit your location along with an alert submission. When you submit your location along with an incident submission we do not receive any other personal identifiable information.
• When enabled, we may use location services in our app to send relevant adverts based on your current location.
• Location services can be turned off, at any time, by heading to device settings and disabling location services for the Cork safety Alerts mobile app.
• Push Notifications: We utilise a company called OneSignal to handle our Push Notifications (via mobile, and web.) It’s important that you understand how OneSignal utilise and use your data before agreeing to receive push notifications from the Cork Safety Alerts website, or mobile apps. OneSignal’s privacy policy can be found here.

Right of rectification or erasure:

• Should you wish to request deletion of your Cork Safety Alerts account, we require you to send an email to us via this form requesting deletion of your account. We’ll deactivate the account immediately, and remove all data from our servers.
• Our Mobile App does not contain any PII. Once you delete the Cork Safety Alerts mobile apps from your device, this erases it. No PII is transferred when submitting incidents to the team.

Right of Access:

• Under section 4 of the Data Protection Act, you have the right to request a copy of any data pertaining to you. To request a copy of data held against you; please submit a written request outlining why, and what data you would like a copy of. Requests must be emailed via this form.

How do we protect your information?

• We use regular Malware Scanning on our website.
• We have a robust Firewall installed on our server, and we also utilise CloudFlare to protect our website.
• Our website is secured via SSL. Any contact form submission is encrypted, using SHA-256 with RSA Encryption. Our SSL Certificate provider is CloudFlare.
• Whilst we will maintain to secure your data and information, we cannot be held liable for intrusions, errors, loss of data or any other interferences with the use of our services caused by a data breach.

Where is data stored?

• Any information, or data hosted on our legacy/old website is hosted in California, United States.
• Our new website (news.corksafetyalerts.com) is hosted by Ghost - All Ghost(Pro) servers are located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
• Any data pertaining to Push Notifications is hosted by OneSignal, their servers are based in the United States.

Do we use ‘cookies’?

• Yes. Cookies are small files that a site or its service provider transfers to your computer’s hard drive through your Web browser (if you allow) that enables the site’s or service provider’s systems to recognise your browser and capture and remember certain information. They are used to help us understand your preferences based on previous or current site activity, which enables us to provide you with improved services. We also use cookies to help us compile aggregate data about site traffic and site interaction so that we can offer better site experiences and tools in the future.

We use cookies to:

• Understand and save user’s preferences for future visits.
• Keep track of advertisements.
• Track certain analytical information using Google Analytics, to improve our website and services.

You can choose to have your computer warn you each time a cookie is being sent, or you can choose to turn off all cookies. You do this through your browser settings. Since browser is a little different, look at your browser’s Help Menu to learn the correct way to modify your cookies. If you turn cookies off, Some of the features that make your site experience more efficient may not function properly. It won’t affect the user’s experience that make your site experience more efficient and may not function properly.

Third-party disclosure

• We do not directly sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside parties your Personally Identifiable Information unless we provide users with advance notice. This does not include website hosting partners and other parties who assist us in operating our website, conducting our business, or serving our users, so long as those parties agree to keep this information confidential.
• We may also release information when it’s release is appropriate to comply with the law, enforce our site policies, or protect ours or others’ rights, property or safety. We are governed by any laws applicable to the Republic of Ireland.
• However, non-personally identifiable visitor information may be provided to other parties for marketing, advertising, or other uses.

How does our site handle Do Not Track signals?

• We honor Do-Not-Track signals and Do-Not-Track, plant cookies, or use advertising when a Do-Not-Track browser mechanism is in place.

Does our site allow third-party behavioral tracking?

• It’s also important to note that we do not allow third-party behavioral tracking.

In order to be in line with Fair Information Practices we will take the following responsive action, should a data breach occur:

• We will notify you via email:
  • Within one (1) business day

Disclaimer:

• We are not responsible for any misleading information which may be displayed on our Website, Mobile Apps or social media accounts. As much as we endeavour to have factual and correct information, this is not always possible. We curate reports from various sources including but not limited to; the public, other social media and official channels.
• Cork Safety Alerts takes no responsibility for any damage or loss to personal belongings, vehicles or any other personal property. We take no responsibility for any injury or loss of life as a result of information supplied to or from our page.

Revisions:

• We reserve the right to update, amend or remove this privacy policy at any given time without prior notice, however, we will provide an update on our homepage and social channels informing of such changes.

Contact Information:

• If you wish to query, modify or request deletion of your information or data please send us an email and we’ll get back to you within 48 hours.

DISCLAIMER

By submitting your images and videos to Cork Safety Alerts, you grant us permission to republish such content on our platforms. We may also, at our sole discretion, with or without notification, share your content with news crews, journalists, and radio stations for publication. We will never sell or distribute your images for commercial gain.

Accuracy of Information

Commitment to Accuracy

Cork Safety Alerts is committed to providing accurate, reliable, and timely information to our audience. We employ rigorous fact-checking procedures and rely on credible sources to ensure the quality of the content we publish.

Source Verification

While much of our content comes from authoritative sources such as press releases or government-issued statements, we also curate reports from various other sources, including the public, social media accounts, and official channels. All information, regardless of the source, undergoes a verification process to confirm its accuracy before publication.

Limitations and Disclaimers

Despite our best efforts, we acknowledge that errors can occur. Cork Safety Alerts is not responsible for any misleading or incorrect information displayed on our website, social media platforms, or any other channels where our content may appear. Users should exercise their own judgment and verify information independently when making decisions based on the content we provide.

Corrections

If an error is identified in any of our publications, we are committed to correcting it promptly. Corrections will be clearly marked and will include an explanation of what was incorrect and how it has been rectified. We also welcome feedback from our audience to help us maintain the highest standards of accuracy.

Transparency

We believe in being transparent about our editorial practices. If a story has been updated or corrected, we will provide an editor's note explaining the changes that were made and the reason for those changes.

By engaging with our content, you acknowledge and agree to the terms set forth in this section regarding the accuracy of information.

Liability

Cork Safety Alerts provides information and updates with the aim of public service and community awareness. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee the veracity, reliability, or completeness of the information provided. Therefore, we disclaim any liability for any decisions made based on such information.

Limitation of Liability

Cork Safety Alerts, its administrators, volunteers, and affiliates shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or exemplary damages, including but not limited to damages for loss of profits, goodwill, use, data, or other intangible losses, resulting from:

1. Use or Inability to Use the Service: This includes any interruption, inaccuracy, error, or omission in the service.
2. Unauthorized Access: Any unauthorized access to or use of our servers and/or any personal information stored therein.
3. Third-Party Content: Any content, statements, or conduct of any third party on the service.
4. Personal Harm or Property Damage: Any harm to persons or property arising from information or advice provided, including but not limited to traffic updates, weather warnings, and emergency alerts.

User Responsibility

Users are responsible for verifying the accuracy of information before taking any actions that may affect their personal safety, property, or well-being. Cork Safety Alerts is not responsible for any damage, loss, or injury that may occur as a result of using or relying on the information provided on our platforms.

Indemnification

By using our services, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Cork Safety Alerts, its administrators, volunteers, and affiliates from any claim or demand made by any third party due to or arising out of your use of the service, your violation of these terms, or your violation of any rights of another party.

By interacting with our platforms, you acknowledge and agree to the terms set forth in this liability section.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

User Comments

Comments, tweets, or replies on our posts are the views of individuals and do not represent the stance of Cork Safety Alerts. We cannot accept responsibility for user-generated content on our social media profiles.

Moderation

Cork Safety Alerts aims to foster a respectful and informative online community. To maintain this environment, we have established a moderation policy for comments and user interactions on our social media platforms.

Types of Content Subject to Moderation

We reserve the right to remove or hide comments, posts, or any user-generated content on our social media pages without prior notice. The following types of content are generally subject to moderation:

1. Abusive or Harassing Content: Any form of harassment, intimidation, or threats against other users or our team.
2. Offensive or Inappropriate Language: Use of obscene, vulgar, or discriminatory language.
3. Spam and Self-Promotion: Repeated posting of promotional material or links that do not contribute to the conversation.
4. Off-Topic Comments: Comments that stray significantly from the subject matter of the original post.
5. Misinformation: Spreading false or misleading information.
6. Personal Information: Posting someone else's personal information without explicit consent.

Moderation Process

1. Initial Review: All comments are subject to an initial review to determine if they comply with our guidelines.
2. Action: Comments that violate our guidelines will be hidden or removed. In some cases, a warning may be issued before taking further action.
3. Transparency: Whenever possible, a note will be added to indicate why a comment was removed, unless doing so could further inflame the situation or violate privacy rules.
4. Appeals: If your comment has been removed and you believe this was in error, you may appeal by contacting here.

User Visibility

Hidden posts will remain visible to the user who posted them but will not be publicly displayed on the page.

By interacting with our social media platforms, you agree to abide by this moderation policy.

Endorsements

No Implicit Endorsements

It's important to note that any sharing, retweeting, or quoting of posts or content by Cork Safety Alerts does not constitute an endorsement or approval of the content, its author, or the views and opinions expressed therein. These actions are primarily taken to share information, provoke discussion, or highlight topics of interest.

Third-Party Content

We often share content from various sources, including government agencies, news organisations, and individuals. While we strive for accuracy and relevance, we cannot vouch for the credibility or integrity of third-party content. Users should exercise their own judgment when interpreting or relying on such information.

Sponsored Content

If any content is sponsored or part of a partnership, it will be clearly indicated as such. Sponsored content undergoes the same rigorous fact-checking process as any other content we publish to ensure it aligns with our editorial standards.

Disclaimers

When sharing content that may be sensitive, controversial, or open to interpretation, we may include a disclaimer to clarify that the share does not equate to an endorsement. For example, a disclaimer might read: "The sharing of this content is for informational purposes only and does not reflect the views or opinions of Cork Safety Alerts."

By interacting with our content, you acknowledge that our sharing, retweeting, or quoting of posts is not an endorsement unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Following and Replies

Cork Safety Alerts follows a selective following policy on social media platforms. While we appreciate every follow, we do not automatically follow back. Our primary focus is to follow accounts that are relevant to the updates and information we publish. This may include but is not limited to:

• Local government agencies
• Emergency services
• Traffic management centres
• News organisations
• Community groups
• Industry experts

Replies and Direct Messages

We strive to maintain active and responsive social media channels. However, due to the high volume of messages and mentions we receive, it may not always be possible to reply to each one individually. Here's what you can generally expect:

• Public Mentions: We monitor mentions and will try to respond to queries or concerns that are of public interest or require immediate attention.
• Direct Messages: We aim to reply to direct messages within a reasonable timeframe. However, during peak times or emergencies, delays may occur.
• Automated Messages: For common queries, you may receive an automated response directing you to relevant resources or sections of our website.
• Sensitive Information: For issues requiring the exchange of sensitive or personal information, we may direct you to a more secure communication channel, such as email.

By interacting with us on social media, you acknowledge and agree to these terms regarding following and replies.

User Blocking

Cork Safety Alerts is committed to maintaining a respectful and safe online community. To ensure this, we reserve the right to remove or block users from our social media channels without prior notice. The following are some of the reasons a user may be blocked or removed:

1. Abusive Behavior: Any form of harassment, intimidation, or threats against other users or our administrators.
2. Offensive Content: Posting content that is obscene, vulgar, or discriminatory based on race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, or age.
3. Spamming: Repeated posting of unwanted promotional or disruptive content.
4. Trolling: Deliberately posting controversial, irrelevant, or offensive remarks to provoke others.
5. Misinformation: Spreading false or misleading information.
6. Violation of Privacy: Sharing personal information of others without their explicit consent.
7. Impersonation: Posing as someone else, including as a Cork Safety Alerts administrator or another user.
8. Illegal Activities: Promoting or engaging in illegal activities.
9. Multiple Offenses: Repeated violations of any of our community guidelines or terms of service.

If you find yourself blocked or removed and believe it was unjust, you may appeal the decision by contacting us here. We will review the circumstances and provide a response within a reasonable timeframe.

Content Submission

When you submit content to Cork Safety Alerts, you acknowledge that it may or may not be used in our publications. All submitted content is subject to review, and we reserve the right to decide whether or not to publish it. Content may be edited for clarity, length, or compliance with our editorial guidelines.

Your submissions may be featured across various platforms, including but not limited to our website, mobile apps, and social media channels. They may also be shared with third-party news crews, journalists, and radio stations for broader publication, at our sole discretion.

While we aim to credit photographers and content creators whenever possible, this may not always be feasible. Some users may wish to remain anonymous; in such cases, no identifying information will be published. During high-volume periods, it may not be possible to seek permission for every piece of content, so by submitting your content, you agree that it may be published on our platforms.

If you wish to have your content removed, please contact us with a link to the specific content you would like deleted.

Acceptance of Terms

By using our website, mobile apps, or following us on social media platforms, you agree to the terms and conditions outlined in this policy.

Fact Checking and Corrections

Cork Safety Alerts is committed to being Cork’s trusted source for local, non-editorialised news. When we say “non-editorialised,” we mean that we focus on publishing factual information without resorting to exaggerated or sensationalised headlines, commonly known as “clickbait.”

Sources of Information

Most of the news we publish comes directly from authoritative sources such as press releases or government-issued statements. However, there may be instances where we rely on multiple sources, some of which may be anonymous. We respect the confidentiality of our sources and make every effort to verify the information we publish through at least two different channels.

Accountability

While we strive for accuracy, we are not infallible. Cork Safety Alerts is not responsible for any misleading information that may appear on our website or social media platforms. We curate reports from various sources, including but not limited to the public, social media accounts, anonymous contributors, and other official channels.

Corrections and Verifications

If you find any inaccuracies in our publications or have questions about our Fact-Checking Policy, please reach out to us here. We are committed to correcting errors promptly and transparently.

Complaints Procedure

If you have a complaint about something we have published or have queries regarding this Fact-Checking Policy, you can email us here. We take all complaints seriously and aim to address them in a timely and transparent manner.

Our Commitment to Integrity

At Cork Safety Alerts, we are committed to publishing quality, factual news. Honesty and transparency are cornerstones of our operation, and maintaining the trust of our readers and followers is of the utmost importance to us.

Correction Procedure

If we discover an error in any of our stories, posts, or publications, we will take immediate steps to correct it as soon as we become aware of the mistake. Our correction procedure includes the following steps:

1. Identify the Correct Information: We will promptly verify and update the incorrect information.
2. Root Cause Analysis: We will investigate why the incorrect information was published in the first place.
3. Accountability: We will identify who was responsible for posting the incorrect information and ascertain why it was not fact-checked in accordance with our internal policies.
4. Internal Reporting: An internal report will be compiled based on the information gathered, to serve as a learning resource for future reference.

Displaying Corrections

If it is not feasible to amend the original content (such as in a Tweet), we will make the correction visible in close proximity to the original content. For example, we may add a thread to the original Tweet or place a correction notice at the top of the original news article.

Complaints Procedure

If you have a complaint about something we have published, or if you have any queries regarding this Fact Corrections Policy, you can email us here. We take all complaints seriously and aim to address them in a timely and transparent manner.