Alert Notification Application

Alert Notification Applications

The County of Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz Regional 9-1-1 are thrilled to announce the launch of CruzAware, an innovative and comprehensive community alert and warning system designed to keep residents informed and safe.

Cruz Aware Registration

CruzAware represents a significant upgrade over the previous system, CodeRED, and introduces a range of enhanced features to ensure effective communication during both emergency and non-emergency situations. In additional to providing vital information during emergencies, CruzAware includes a robust messaging platform for residents in unincorporated areas that goes beyond emergency alerts and give those residents the option to receive non-emergency notifications regarding roadwork and other neighborhood-level disruptions and information.

Each user can select their preferred language and communication channels, including phone calls, text messages and/or email. CruzAware also includes a free mobile app, available across all platforms. This new functionality aims to foster greater awareness, engagement, and collaboration among community members.

Key features and benefits of CruzAware include:

• Comprehensive emergency alerts: Receive critical information during natural disasters, severe weather events, public safety concerns, and other emergencies.
• Non-emergency messaging: Stay informed about roadwork, community-level impacts, public meetings, and other important updates affecting your area.
• Customizable communication channels: Choose to receive alerts via text messages, phone calls, email, or the CruzAware mobile app to ensure notifications reach you wherever you are.
• Enhanced accuracy and precision: Benefit from advanced geolocation technology that delivers targeted alerts based on your specific location, minimizing unnecessary disruptions.
• Multilingual support: Access alerts and messages in multiple languages to accommodate the diverse needs of our community.

To learn more about CruzAware and sign up for emergency notifications, please visit CruzAware.org. Stay connected and stay informed to make our community safer and stronger together.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Frequently Asked Questions (Spanish)

Additional Alert Applications

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

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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.

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:

• Learn more about National Weather Radio (NWR) Receivers »
• Weather Radio Guide »

Alerts that Do Not Require Subscriptions

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 »

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.