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1. What is CodeRED and what is it used for?

CodeRED is a web-based critical communication solution that enables local public Safety personnel to notify residents and business by telephone, text message, email, and social media of time sensitive information, emergencies, or urgent notifications. The system can reach hundreds of thousands of individuals in minutes to ensure emergency notification reach the intended recipient. Only authorized officials have access to send alerts using the CodeRED system.

2. When will CodeRED be used?

Any message regarding the safety of our residents and community will be disseminated using CodeRED. We will send out alerts via phone text, email, and social media when the life safety of the residents of Westmoreland County will be directly affected by an emergency. This is a community alert system to ensure you remain informed of important information. Please keep in mind that as you register to receive CodeRED alerts, you have the ability to select the types of messages you wish to receive and your preferred means of communications.

3. What if I want to receive a text or email to my cell phone from your system?

It is possible to receive text notifications to a wireless device or email account. If you wish to receive email or text notifications, enter the desired email address in the appropriate field of the self-registration page. The County will not be responsible for any fees associated with delivery or receipt of text or email messages. If you are unsure of your text or email fees, contact your wireless provider.

Additionally, be aware that capabilities of various cell phone models and limitations of wireless carrier networks may impact delivery of email and text messages. Timely and complete delivery of these email and text messages is not implied or guaranteed.

4. Is there a cost to register for CodeRED?

No, registering for CodeRED phone calls, text messages, and email are free. Simply sign up on our enrollment website and select your preferred means of communications.

5. How will I know when CodeRED is calling?

A CodeRED message will have the caller ID # 866-419-5000 for emergencies and caller ID #855-969-4636 for non-emergencies. We suggest that you program these numbers into your cellphone as a “new contact” and use “CodeRED” as the contact name. If you need to replay the message receive, you can dial this number and listen to the message again in its entirety.

6. Why is CodeRED important to me?

CodeRED is an important tool to help keep you informed and prepared for any emergencies that may occur in Westmoreland County. Officials will send messages to alert you of emergency details, instructions, or precautions that you need in order to make well-informed decisions and remain safe. This system is precise enough to geo-target residents within an exact area of impact, so that only those people who are affected by emergency situation are notified.

7. How do I sign up?

Visit the Westmoreland County’s CodeRED enrollment website and enter the required information online (address, phone number(s), This is the quickest way to sign up because the information you supply is immediately registered in the system. If you do not have Internet at home, please consider visiting a library or asking a friend or family member for assistance.

8. Does CodeRED already have my telephone number?

No, residents should assume that their information is not is the CodeRED system until online registration is complete.

9. I have a cordless phone and it will not work when the power goes out. How will the system contact me?

Make sure to have at least one working corded telephone on hand for these situations. However, when signing up for CodeRED, you may indicate both a primary and alternative phone number. Cell phones and/or work phone numbers can be entered as alternatives. Both your primary and your alternative phone numbers will be contacted in the event of a CodeRED notification.

10. What do I do if I receive a CodeRED message?

If you receive a CodeRED phone call, listen carefully to the entire message. You can repeat the message by pressing any key. Do not call 911 for further information unless directed to so, or you need immediate aide from the police or fire department. If you receive a CodeRED email or text message, please be sure to read the entire message carefully and follow all instructions.

11. What if I miss a CodeRED phone call?

The CodeRED system will leave a message on your answering machine or voicemail if you miss a CodeRED phone call. If you do not have an answering machine the system will consider the call as “incomplete” and will attempt to call again after several minutes have passed. If your phone line is busy, CodeRED will try two more times to connect. At any point, you may re-dial the 800 number on your caller ID to hear a replay of the message sent.

12. What is the CodeRED Mobile Alert app?

CodeRED offers a mobile app for Android and IPhone devices. All residents and business owners are encouraged to download the free app to receive alerts based on the geo-location of your phone. As you travel throughout other CodeRED communities, you can receive important alerts from those communities. Download the CodeRED Mobile alert app.

13. What if I have more questions?

Please direct additional questions to the Westmoreland County Department of Public Safety at 724-600-7300 or email [email protected]