The City of Bainbridge is in the process of changing Emergency Notification providers and is encouraging residents to opt in.

Julie Harris, Director of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, said the City previously had a system called Code Red, but IT Manager, Sterling Widener thought this program would be a better fit.

The initial phase of the alert system is having residents sign up. Harris explained during the switchover, the new program was able to save some landline phone numbers, but no email addresses or cell phone numbers.

It is simple to opt in to get the emergency alerts. Residents can text their zip code to 888777 or sign up at https://local.nixle.com/register/

Harris said although she has not had to use the Code Red option much before, it comes in handy during severe weather or City announcements, such as garbage pickup notifications.

The new notification system can be used for severe weather, criminal activities, severe traffic, missing persons and local events. Harris said they will not be using all of those options because it is not necessary, but in the future Bainbridge Public Safety may consider using it if there was ever an active shooting situation or missing child.

Harris said anyone could sign up for the emergency alerts; they don’t just have to live in the City, although it is recommended for all City residents.

People from the County can opt in, and additionally people from out of town. Harris has had people call in and ask if they can download the program because they have elderly relatives living in Bainbridge and she confirmed they could.

“It’s non-restrictive and for anyone who can benefit from it,” Harris finished.