Richmond has two alert paths worth knowing

Richmond has two alert systems worth setting up, but they do different jobs.

Everbridge/Nixle carries City of Richmond messages. A full account can send texts and emails based on the places and message levels you choose. For a simpler text-only signup, text a ZIP code to 888777. That shortcut follows the ZIP code and offers fewer choices than an account. Richmond uses Nixle for urgent alerts and for lower-level advisories.

The Contra Costa Community Warning System, or CWS, is the county’s official system for a danger that may require action, such as sheltering in place or evacuating. CWS is not the city’s advisory feed. Register cell phones, internet-based home phones, email addresses, and the places you care about. Traditional landlines are already in the CWS calling system. Wireless Emergency Alerts are a separate channel that can reach compatible phones without signup.

The outdoor safety sirens near industrial facilities are part of CWS, not Nixle. The full siren test is at 11 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month; quieter growl tests happen on the other Wednesdays. If a safety siren sounds outside a test, go inside, close doors and windows, turn off fans and ventilation, and listen for the official instruction.

Sign up for both systems and follow the message for your location. The CWS website carries current protective-action alerts; a Nixle advisory or an old post is not a substitute for that live instruction.