Residents May Now Receive Emergency Notices Via E-mail and Text Message
PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (May 12, 2010) -– The Calvert County Department of Public Safety is implementing upgrades to the county’s emergency notification system that will allow residents to receive urgent messages by e-mail and text message in addition to the telephone calls that have been the primary method of notification.
The CodeRED emergency notification system allows public safety officials to directly contact Calvert County residents in the event of emergency situations such as weather threats, missing children and water/sewer service disruptions. The Calvert County Department of Public Safety and the Sheriff’s Office urge county residents to sign up for the service by providing home telephone numbers, cell phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Those who previously signed up for CodeRED notifications can update their information at any time. Businesses may also register for the free service.
“The new upgrades to Calvert County’s emergency notification system will enable residents to receive urgent messages regardless of where they may be located,” said Jacqueline Vaughan, acting director of the county Department of Public Safety. “We realize many residents commute outside of the county daily and these new options can help them stay informed.”
“CodeRED has served the county well as an efficient way to notify citizens of law enforcement actions, severe weather and other events,” said Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans. “The addition of e-mails and text messaging will expand our reach. These enhancements are part of our ongoing effort to improve services to the community.”
The Department of Public Safety will send a message about the system upgrades on May 19 to all residents currently registered in CodeRED. This message will include guidance on how residents can update their information with text message contacts and e-mail addresses. The Department of Public Safety and the Sheriff’s Office remind residents that CodeRED call notifications may include up to a five-second delay before messages begin. They urge them not to hang up until the message has played. Citizens with caller ID will see the CodeRED phone number listed as 410-535-1600.
To register for the free CodeRED emergency notification system or to update contact information with text message and/or e-mail addresses, go to www.co.cal.md.us, and click on the CodeRED Emergency Notification System link. For more information, contact the Department of Public Safety’s Division of Emergency Management at 410-535-1600, ext 2638.