The city of Buckley launched a new emergency alert system last month, and residents can use the service to crucial information in case of major events like boil water notices, fires, or even volcanic activity.

The system will be primarily used for emergencies where people’s safety is at risk, like natural disasters. But it will also be used sparingly for specific non-emergency situations, according to Police Chief Alfano, such as major vehicle accidents that require re-routing traffic through the city or some missing person notifications.

Residents who opt in to the service can choose to receive notifications over text, phone and email, and can also receive messages via reverse 911.

“For emergency conditions that pose an immediate threat to the health and welfare of the community, Buckley Alert will be an effective tool for reaching audiences that are traditionally difficult to contact,” the city said in a press release.

Fire Chief Eric Skogen said they also plan to launch similar services for Wilkeson and Carbonado.

The Buckley Alert system is separate from the PC Alert, which is run by Pierce County. The city encourages residents to enroll in both. More information about Pierce County Alert is available at piercecountywa.gov/921/Pierce-County-ALERT.

To sign up for the Buckley Alert system, visit public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/BFAF760F9B1C.