Marin County switches to Alert Marin system prioritizing community sign-ups

The Tiburon Disaster Advisory Council convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding emergency preparedness and communication systems in Marin County. A significant focus of the meeting was the recent transition from the Nixle alert system to Alert Marin, which the county has adopted as its primary emergency notification platform. Council members expressed concerns about the confusion this change may cause among residents, particularly as neighboring jurisdictions like Sausalito and Mill Valley have also made adjustments to their alert systems.

The council emphasized the importance of encouraging community members to sign up for Alert Marin to ensure they receive timely emergency notifications. Members noted that while Mill Valley will no longer promote Nixle, it will continue to use it for non-emergency communications, which could lead to further confusion.

Another key topic was the reliance on mutual aid for emergency services, especially given the geographical challenges of the Tiburon Peninsula. Council members highlighted the need for robust mutual aid agreements to ensure that emergency services can respond effectively, particularly in the event of a disaster that isolates the area. Discussions included the potential for community-led initiatives, such as block captain programs, to enhance local preparedness.

The meeting also touched on the upcoming disaster preparedness fair organized by Mill Valley, which aims to rejuvenate community engagement in emergency planning. Council members expressed their support for this initiative and encouraged participation to foster a culture of preparedness.

In conclusion, the council's discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to improve emergency communication and preparedness in Tiburon and surrounding areas. The transition to Alert Marin and the emphasis on mutual aid are critical steps in ensuring the community is ready to respond effectively to potential disasters. The council plans to continue monitoring these developments and engage with residents to enhance overall safety and preparedness.