ATHOL — Localized flash flooding from a fast-moving thunderstorm was the impetus needed to activate the new CodeRED system in town on Tuesdsay.
Fire Chief John Duguay crafted his first message to residents who signed up for the service, alerting users that several streets in Athol flooded. The message continued “For your safety, please do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways.”
With the push of a button, the message went out to cell phones, emails and land-line answering machines across town at 12:59 p.m. The messages are automatically posted on the Town of Athol website (www.athol-ma.gov), as well. Residents who have not done so are urged to sign up for the free service. The enrollment page link is available on the Town of Athol website. Signup takes a couple minutes.
Town Manager Shaun Suhoski said a more accessible link will be made available on the town website. It was noted there were a few glitches in the new system that will be worked out. Some people received up to 10 of the same messages; some people who didn’t sign up received messages. He said the town will not overuse the system.
Selectman Lee Chauvette said the messages went out automatically to all the landlines with the “249” exchange, and wondered whether Phillipston residents who share the exchange received the alert. Phillipston’s Chief Executive Officer Kevin Flynn said Wednesday that no complaints were received.
Subscribers may choose to receive the alerts by one or more methods.
No major problems were reported due to the flooding. The swift downpour caused temporary flooding on Marble Street and Vine Street.
Diana Cooley, administrative clerk at the Department of Public Works, said she hadn’t received any calls for help.
“Marble Street floods every time we get a heavy rainstorm,” she said. “The drainage system can only take so much.”