Your Phone Is About to Ring - It's a Reverse 911 Test

Authorities estimate about 2.5 million Orange County residents will receive what some officials term a “reverse 911” call today to test a system for mass notification of major events or threats.

Residents will receive a phone call and email for the sixth straight year to test the system -- known as AlertOC -- which is designed to let as many people as possible know about disasters or other dangerous situations. The test is part of National Preparedness Month.

Authorities say the region faces increased drought-related threats, such as wildfires, and expected El Nino storms that could cause severe flooding and mudslides. Through the system, authorities can let residents known about evacuation orders.

As part of Thursday’s drill, the county’s emergency public information hotline -- (714) 628-7085 -- will be available from 10 a.m. to noon to offer tips.

The county and 25 cities are teaming up for the drill. For more information or to register alternate phone numbers and e-mail addresses, visit AlertOC.com.

City News Service