Code Red

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Emergency Notification System

With the CodeRed Emergency Notification System the City of Hurst now has the ability to notify the entire City or only the affected areas of the City about emergency situations in a matter of minutes. The system is available to all Hurst residents free of charge.

The CodeRED system delivers pre-recorded emergency telephone messages to affected areas, or the entire City, at a rate of up to 30,000 calls per hour. Examples of times when the CodeRED system may be utilized include Homeland Security related emergencies, hazardous materials emergencies, drinking water contamination and other emergency situations where rapid and accurate notification is essential for life safety.

The City of Hurst has obtained a preliminary set of phone numbers for most residents and businesses in Hurst. To make sure that we have the most up to date information, we are asking that you visit the following site to update your information. Sign-up for Code-Red.  It is ok to update your information even if you have had the same address and number for several years. This will allow us to make sure the information is correct.

Frequently Asked Question about CodeRed 

How does CodeRED work?
CodeRED delivers the important message through a high-speed telephone calling system to a specific geographical area of the City, or to the entire City. City staff will access CodeRED via a secure portal on the web. A "call area" will be marked identifying street addresses. Telephone numbers will be matched up electronically to these addresses and a pre-recorded message will be sent out via the telephone with information about the incident and possibly instructions via the telephone with information about the incident and possibly instructions for citizens. The CodeRED system will deliver messages to persons who answer their phones, and also to voicemail and answering machines. When there is no answer at a telephone number, CodeRED will attempt to deliver the message up to three times.

What does a CodeRED message sound like?
CodeRED messages will always begin with the statement: "This is CodeRed Emergency message from the City of Hurst." The message will provide information about the situation. Depending on the situation, the message may also provide instructions for residents to stay indoors, shelter in place, or evacuate to a designated location.

What should I do if I receive a CodeRED message?
If you receive a CodeRED telephone message please:

  • Listen Carefully
  • Follow Instructions
  • Don't hang up until you hear the whole message (the message will not be repeated)
  • DO NOT call 9-1-1 unless instructed to do so (You will only tie up emergency lines).

Is my telephone number already included in the CodeRED system?
The CodeRED database includes telephone information provided by AT&T, but it does not necessarily contain 100% of the telephone numbers in our community. Residents should not assume that their telephone number is included in this database. All Hurst businesses, those individuals and businesses with VoIP phones, those who have changed their phone number or address within the last year, and those who use a cellular phone as their home phone should register. Registration can be completed by clicking on the CodeRED icon at the top of this page and following the instructions.

Will the system work with cell phones?
Yes. But, your cell phone number needs to be associated in the database with your Hurst address. We encourage you click on the CodeRED icon at the top of this page and follow the instructions for inputting or updating your information.

Is CodeRED the only means of emergency notification?
No. CodeRED is only part of the notification process. The City will also continue to utilize its outdoor warning system, the City web site, and other sources of information dissemination. Residents should also continue to use NOAA weather radios as the method of receiving early weather related warnings.

Do I have to participate in the CodeRed emergency notification system?
No. If you would like to have your number removed from the system, please call 817-788-7238. We will require that you bring us a notarized statement (in person) that requests that you do not wish to be notified of critical information in an emergency.

Who can I contact for more information about CodeRED?
If you have a comment or question about the CodeRED Emergency Notification System, please call 817-788-7238 during normal business hours.