Opinion

In Our View: CodeRED
Monday, September 11, 2006 10:09 AM CDT

Everyone should register for new emergency notification system

On the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, it’s fitting we consider a new service that will help keep our area citizens safe.

The two Texarkanas and Bowie and Miller counties have teamed up to implement CodeRED, an emergency telephone notification system capable of making 60,000 calls an hour.

The system can be used for any emergency that impacts the safety of the public, either area-wide or in a specific neighborhood.

The public would be notified by phone when a dangerous situation develops, such as train derailments, fires, dangerous weather conditions—even police emergencies such as hostage situation. The system saves emergency officials from having to go door-to-door in the event of a disaster.

At an initial cost of $25,000 and a yearly cost of half that, to be shared by the two cities and counties, the system is a wise investment for the safety of area residents.

But the success of the system depends on the public as well,

The system is database driven, which means only those individuals and businesses that have registered for the service will benefit.

It is essential that all Texarkana and Bowie and Miller county residents register for the CodeRED system as soon as possible. Don’t put it off—you may forget. And be sure to tell your friends and neighbors to register as well. And if you have an elderly family member or friend who needs help with registration, make sure they are in the system.

Residents can log on to www.txkusa.org and follow the link to the “CodeRED Residential and Business Data Collections” page. Or you can call the Bi-State central records and communications department (903-798-3181) to give your information over the phone.

Residents can log on to www.txkusa.org and follow the link to the “CodeRED Residential and Business Data Collections” page. Or you can call the Bi-State central records and communications department (903-798-3181) to give your information over the phone.

Required information includes first and last name, street address, city, state, ZIP code and primary phone number.

Those who use their cell phone as a primary home phone should register as well. The system works with cell phones, as long as the owner is registered.

The CodeRED system will go a long way toward keeping the public informed and out of harm’s way during an emergency situation. Don’t jeopardize your family’s safety. Register today.