Following an extensive and thorough evaluation and review of alerting systems, Blue Earth County has implemented the CodeRED system, a high-speed emergency notification service provided by Emergency Communications Network.
The CodeRED system will serve as the backbone of the County’s emergency planning and communications outreach to both citizens and staff by using the system capabilities to send telephone calls, text messages and e-mails in an effort to effectively inform residents to protect lives and property. Notification information will also be sent out to those who follow Blue Earth County on social media via Twitter and Facebook.
CodeRED, among other notification systems available, was selected for its reliability and accuracy, as well as the system’s global use.
“CodeRED’s robust system will provide officials with a reliable, easy-to-use interface to quickly disseminate critical information to our citizens during emergencies,” stated Mike Maurer, Blue Earth County Emergency Management Director. “We are very eager to use this technology to enhance our emergency preparedness plans.”
Public safety officials across the United States have credited CodeRED notifications for many successful events including locating missing children, apprehending wanted criminals and issuing timely evacuations. The County anticipates using the system to notify residents in specific geographic locations regarding critical emergencies such as tornado warnings, evacuation notices, flooding and missing child alerts. CodeRED is capable of sending important messages to landlines and cellular phones.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to register for emergency notification alerts on the Blue Earth County website at www.blueearthcountymn.gov by clicking on the CodeRED button. When registering, you may contribute additional information if you wish, such as mobile phone numbers, work telephone lines and alternate emergency contact information. Those without internet access can sign-up using computer terminals at any of the three Blue Earth County Library locations in Lake Crystal, Mankato or Mapleton or by contacting Blue Earth County Emergency Management at (507) 304-4806 for assistance. All contact information provided remains private and is only used for emergency notification purposes.
Additionally, mobile app options and further information about the CodeRED system is available on the Blue Earth County website at www.blueearthcountymn.gov/CodeRED.