During a recent committee meeting, members discussed critical community safety initiatives, particularly focusing on the Code Red system and its new scam alert program aimed at protecting residents, especially seniors, from prevalent scams.

Christopher Minnick from Cuyahoga County's Office of Emergency Management presented an overview of the Code Red system, which has been operational since 2018. The system serves as a dual-purpose tool for immediate public notifications regarding emergencies, such as Amber Alerts and hazardous situations, and allows residents to opt-in for updates on local news and scams. Minnick emphasized the importance of this system in enhancing public safety by enabling officials to send targeted alerts to specific areas during emergencies.

Drew Thomas from the Department of Consumer Affairs highlighted the alarming statistic that county residents lost approximately $6 million to scams last year, a figure likely underreported. He introduced the new scam alert feature, which will provide residents with timely updates on current scams and preventive measures. The alerts can be received via landline or mobile phones, ensuring accessibility for seniors who may not use computers.

Council members expressed their support for these initiatives, recognizing the need for increased awareness and education on scams. They discussed the potential for outreach programs at local senior centers to further educate vulnerable populations about recognizing and reporting scams.

In addition to the Code Red updates, the committee also addressed several ordinances, including amendments related to public safety fees and permits for fireworks displays, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance community safety and engagement.

The meeting underscored the commitment of local officials to protect residents from scams and improve emergency communication systems, reflecting a proactive approach to community safety.