Cumberland County Public Safety Agencies are hoping to increase the number of citizens who sign up for CodeRED, a nationwide emergency alert system used to notify residents of emergencies in their area. The app can be downloaded onto cell phones.

If there is a traffic accident or a fire that leads to a road closing, or any other emergency or threat to the safety of the public, citizens will receive an automated call notifying them of that issue.

While CodeRED is an existing program, the agencies are hoping to increase participation by an additional 80,000 people by August 5. The Town of Gorham as well as Westbrook and Scarborough and a number of other community organizations are expected to sign up. The more people who participate, the more effective the program will be.

To sign up, visit Cumberland County’s website.