Hailey Heseltine
news@greenepublishing.com
When preparing to face a crisis, every second counts. That is why it is so important that timely and effective emergency alerts reach everyone before the crisis does. Emergency alerts do not just notify us about an existing hazard, they help us to prepare for disasters so we can act fast. Getting the time to take decisive action when faced with a crisis saves lives and reduces property losses, lessening the overall impact of the disaster on our homes, our community and our lives.
In Madison County, Leigh Basford, Director of the Emergency Management Office, uses CodeRED, a mass notification system, to reach people when there is a local crisis, such as missing persons, boil water advisories and evacuations, severe weather and other situations the public needs to be informed of. Landlines will be called automatically, but you may also opt to receive additional emergency notifications via call, text and email for your mobile phone. Additionally, CodeRED allows citizens to receive weather alerts that directly affect their address. For example, if their home address falls within a location where a severe weather alert has been issued by the National Weather Service, they may sign up to receive calls or text so you may be informed immediately.
You may sign up to receive these notifications by going to www.madisoncountyfl.com, clicking on the CodeRed logo and setting up an account. You may also call (850) 973-3698 to learn more and get assistance with signing up.
With the chaotic Florida weather and the continuing hurricane season, it is more important now than ever for us all to stay informed, and making sure we are reached by CodeRED is a vital step in doing so. Do not delay in signing up if you have not already!
