County expands traffic-related notifications with CodeRED text message
Published on October 15, 2024
In response to community feedback requesting more timely updates on significant traffic accidents, the Los Alamos County Office of Emergency Management will work with the Los Alamos Police Department (LAPD) to expand the use of the CodeRED emergency alert system to include significant traffic-related notifications. LAPD officials say that this collaboration is intended to help citizens avoid traffic disruptions by providing real-time updates via text message, since most vehicles have hands-free technology.
This new approach does not change the LAPD's policy of withholding specific details, such as accident causation until proper investigations are conducted, and the names of those injured or deceased in deference to the affected families. However, the department recognizes the need to share timely information to assist drivers in finding alternate routes to avoid the area, if possible, to minimize the risk of additional accidents and to ensure drivers safely reach their destinations.
Regarding sensitive details, “our priority is accuracy over the speed of releasing information,” said Police Chief Dino Sgambellone. "We know that often what is perceived at the scene is not always the full story. My officers will not make assumptions but will instead conduct a thorough investigation. I realize that sometimes this may take longer for information to become available."
Chief Sgambellone and Public Works Director Juan Rael will present this initiative and discuss other roadway safety measures with Los Alamos County Council at the October 22 Council Work Session, scheduled at 6 p.m. at White Rock Fire Station 3.
CodeRED: A Tool for Public Safety
For several years, the Emergency Management Office (OEM) has utilized CodeRED to notify the Los Alamos community about critical emergencies, such as fires, floods, and important safety messages regarding police activity. The system, which is free, delivers important information through phone calls, texts, and emails. Although CodeRED was previously reserved for emergency situations, OEM has now incorporated traffic-related updates via text into its messaging strategy.
Traffic Incident Alerts via CodeRED text messages
Effective immediately, OEM will use CodeRED text messages to notify residents of significant traffic incidents, such as road closures, traffic delays, or hazards like fuel spills within the county and a limited area outside the county boundary. CodeRED phone and email alerts will remain reserved for non-traffic-related emergencies, such as wildfires, flooding, or other situations requiring immediate public action.
This change allows OEM and LAPD to provide timely updates on traffic conditions while maintaining the integrity of emergency notifications for critical incidents.
Benefits of this approach
- Hands-Free Safety: Text alerts allow drivers to receive updates using hands-free technology, minimizing driving distractions.
- Avoiding Alert Fatigue: Reserving phone calls and emails for major emergencies ensures residents pay close attention to other urgent notifications.
- Accurate and Timely Information: Individuals who've opted in can trust that the information in the alerts is the most accurate and up-to-date available.
In addition to CodeRED text alerts, LAPD will continue to share traffic updates via social media, press releases, and electronic signage at key locations. Local media outlets are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED to receive immediate notifications and help disseminate the information to the public.
How to Sign Up for CodeRED
LAPD and OEM encourage all residents and commuters to sign up for CodeRED alerts and select all three delivery methods (phone, email, and text) to ensure all critical notifications are received. To register visit the Los Alamos County website at
https://losalamosnm.us/Emergency-Notifications or the CodeRED registration page at
https://lacnm.com/CodeRED. Commuters who live outside of Los Alamos County can register as guests. Under the heading “Contact Addresses and Communication Methods” select “business” and enter the applicable information for the remaining fields.
For more information or assistance with registering for CodeRED alerts, contact OEM at 505-662-8283.