JACKSON — Now, an improved safety option is available for you and your family, this as the weather advisory portion of the CodeRED Notification System went online this week.

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The system allows Northampton County to telephone residents in the case of an emergency situation which requires immediate action. The system will deliver a pre-recorded message describing the situation.

A recent upgrade allows residents to receive from the National Weather Service weather alerts for various weather situations.

Northampton County Emergency Management Services Director Tim Byers said the all-call was launched at an all-call Thursday at 10:50 a.m.

It went to 13,000 phone numbers in the system. Byers added 300 people have already signed up for the service.

The weather advisory portion will be able to alert people of possible tornado warnings or sightings. Byers noted in situations like this there is less than 5 minutes to react.

“This system allows us to get quicker notification,” he said. “It will allow people quicker time to react and take cover. It could be a lifesaving service that is free of charge.”

People interested in signing up for CodeRED can go to the Northampton County website at www.northamptonnc.com and click on the CodeRED icon. And then enter up to two phone numbers, such as a home number and a cell number.

Byers said those without a computer or Internet access can call his office at 252-574-0214 and leave a message with their name, phone number and physical address.

“I will call them back and enter their information for them,” he said. Byers said he is glad the county commissioners allowed them to keep the CodeRED contract in the budget.

“And also provide additional funds from the Emergency Management Services  budget to add the emergency weather notification addition,” he said.