Torrance County launched a text messaging alert system Wednesday, enabling residents to receive emergency notifications and county information directly on their mobile phones.
The TextMyGov service went live Dec. 3 andwill send alerts about emergencies, road closures, critical incidents and weather events to residents who opt in. The county will send an initial text message from the number 80946 to introduce the service.
Residents can sign up by texting “TORRANCE COUNTY” to 80946 and replying “YES” to confirm. Those who receive the initial message but wish to opt out can text “STOP” at any time.
The system offers targeted alerts through specific keywords. Residents can text “TORRANCE COUNTY” to 80946 for general alerts and emergency notifications, “TORRANCE FIRE ALERTS” for prescribed burns or active fire alerts, and “TORRANCE NWS” for weather alerts. Spanish speakers can text “HOLA TORRANCE” for alerts in Spanish.
County Manager J. Jordan Barela said in an announcement that the technology represents the county’s commitment to enhancing resident services through 21st-century solutions.
“We’re excited about this new way of communicating with residents and look forward to sharing important county notifications,” Barela said.
More information about the service is available at https://textmygov.com.