Alert Notification Applications

Code Red

The County of Santa Cruz is susceptible to many natural hazards including: earthquake, flood, debris flows, dangerous tides, tsunami, and wildland fire. When these disasters or human-caused events occur, the county will send alert notifications and warning through Code Red.

To ensure you can receive alert notifications and updates from official agencies (fire, law enforcement, public health and the county emergency management unit), register your mobile phone, landline and email at Code Red.

Be sure to check the “Emergency Notifications” box.

Additional Alert Applications

The County of Santa Cruz strongly recommends subscribing to the following alert and warning systems:

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Nixle

Receive email and text message alerts from local fire and law enforcement agencies that include public safety messages as well as emergency information.

Text your zip code to 888777 to opt-in or sign up online to receive email or text messages with alerts and advisories.

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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio This alert system is available for purchase at a relatively low cost. When properly programmed, the National Weather Service can remotely turn on these radios and send basic alerts, including for wildfire. The message may be accompanied by a warning tone, depending on the model of radio you purchase.

NOAA Weather Radio Set-Up Video »

Santa Cruz County residents should tune their NOAA radio to the nearest weather channels:

  • San Francisco 162.400
  • Monterey 162.550
  • Monterey Marine 162.450

For hearing impaired use, add on equipment such as strobe lights and bed shakers. An instructional video regarding how to set up this weather radio is provided below:

Alerts that Do Not Require Subscriptions

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Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) – This federal system works exclusively by sending a text message to your cell phone, much like an Amber Alert. A WEA message is accompanied by a special warning tone. To activate this alert, make sure you cell phone settings are set up to accept these emergency and public safety alerts.

Learn more about WEA »

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Emergency Alert System (EAS)

The system sends messages to local radio and television stations who may broadcast it. An EAS message is typically accompanied by a special warning tone. Find out what local stations are part of the EAS so you know where to go for the latest information.