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What to do when Sirens Sound

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Extreme Weather Information

The National Weather Service may issue Red Flag Warnings due to extreme weather conditions. To check if any red flag warnings are in effect for your area please go to: https://www.weather.gov/mtr/

FAQ’s

What is the Community Warning System?

The Community Warning System (CWS) is the all-hazard public warning notification system for Contra Costa County. CWS alerts you through phone calls, text messages, email, the sounding of sirens, this website, and social media, when a potentially life or health-threatening hazard requires you to take action.

What number will CWS call & text from?

Phone Call: Your caller ID may display as “925-655-0195”. When you receive this important call, don’t hang up.

Save this number as a new contact on your mobile device and label it "Community Warning System" to avoid missing an alert due to spam filters.

Once you receive the message, follow the instructions given.

Text Messages: CWS Text messages will come from a 5-digit short code that may be different each time. Example: 284-62

Text Message Language Translation for iPhone

Click Here to learn how to translate an incoming text message alert on your iPhone.

Earthquake Alerting through ShakeAlert ®

California Office of Emergency Services though The ShakeAlert ® App, sends a warning to mobile phone users that shaking is about to occur. The system uses ground-motion sensors to detect earthquakes that have already started and estimates their size, location, and impact. When it detects a significant magnitude, the system issues a ShakeAlert ® Message, providing a warning before shaking begins. The mobile app is available now for free in the App Store and on Google Play.

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages designed to get an individual's attention through a unique and loud sound via your mobile device. The CWS utilizes this alert tool when there is imminent danger, and protective action must be taken. WEAs allow CWS to provide critical information to an area, regardless of enrollment status with the CWS.

Mobile phones miles outside of a targeted alert area may receive a WEA due to cell phone carrier-designed overreach that can be affected by terrain, cell-phone tower location, or mobile device settings. This means you may be notified of an emergency for an area you may not be in or may not have signed up to receive alerts for.

The noise from a WEA can be unsettling, disrupt sleep, or be confusing when you are not in the targeted area. However, WEAs are a necessary tool for use during critical events. Your understanding and feedback is appreciated.

Where may I get updated incident information?

The CWS is generally used for initial emergency notifications to the public. This message will include the geographic location of the hazard and area affected, the protective action being requested, and the contact information for the authorizing agency.

For ongoing general information on an incident, you may find information via social media, by watching your local news, or through news websites.

2022 Residents Guide to Wildfire Preparedness and Evacuation

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