Laguna Beach enhances emergency alert systems with Sarah Lemonis' guidance

Safety remains a top priority in Laguna Beach, as city officials emphasize the importance of keeping residents informed during emergencies. In a recent meeting, emergency operations coordinator Sarah Lemonis outlined the various alert systems in place to ensure that both residents and visitors are prepared for unexpected situations.

Laguna Beach utilizes multiple alert systems to communicate vital information during emergencies. The Nixle system serves as the community's primary alert tool, providing notifications about emergencies, traffic updates, and local events. Residents can easily sign up for Nixle alerts by texting 92651 to 888777, ensuring they receive timely information directly via text message, mobile app, or email.

In addition to Nixle, the city participates in Alert OC, Orange County's regional mass notification system. This platform allows officials, including those from Laguna Beach Public Safety, to send emergency messages to individuals in affected areas. Residents are encouraged to register at alertoc.com to receive these crucial alerts.

Another key component of Laguna Beach's emergency communication strategy is the Wireless Emergency Alerts system. This feature sends urgent messages directly to mobile phones based on location, even if the phone is on silent, and does not require prior registration. Furthermore, the Emergency Alert System (EAS) enables the county to interrupt radio and television broadcasts to deliver emergency instructions, often activated by the National Weather Service.

Lastly, the city has implemented an outdoor warning system, which includes strategically placed speakers and sirens throughout Laguna Beach. This system broadcasts critical emergency instructions to those in the vicinity, ensuring that everyone is informed during a crisis.

As emergencies can arise unexpectedly, city officials urge residents to stay informed and prepared by signing up for these alert systems. The proactive measures taken by Laguna Beach aim to enhance community safety and ensure that everyone is equipped with the information they need in times of crisis.