The Cook County Sheriff’s Office uses CodeRED to get emergency messages out to community members. The system allows us to deliver emergency messages to you via phone call to your landline or mobile device and through text and email. These messages can be delivered county-wide, to specific geographic regions, or to specific audiences. 

Please sign up for CodeRED Emergency Alerts. Note- if you signed up before November of 2025- please register again as CodeRED had to rebuild their system. If you are not sure if you are in their system- go ahead and sign up again. Reister for CodeRED here: https://cookcountymn.gov/government/departments/sheriff/codered.php 

Residents should register through the CodeRED web portal (the link available above). The web version allows you to: 

• Add multiple addresses- be sure the property you are concerned about is one of those addresses 

• Register your mobile phone number 

• Sign up for text messages 

• Include email addresses 

 Alerts you receive through the web-based system do not disappear, and this version gives you the most consistent access to messages.  

About the CodeRED Mobile App 

You can also receive alerts through the CodeRED mobile app, but it works differently: 

• Alerts are based on your current physical location, not the address you registered online. 

• Events automatically clear from the app after a set broadcast period. 

• You will need to create an account in the app—however, for convenience, you can use the same login information you used for the web version. 

  Important: When downloading the app, look for “CodeRED Public Alerts.” Do not select “CodeRED Command” as that version is for organizations and will ask for workspace credentials.  

Local fire departments will go door to door when “SET” and “GO” protocols are initiated as another layer of notification.

Ready, Set, Go Reminders 

The Cook County Sheriff is the only authority to order an emergency evacuation in the county. Cook County uses the “Ready, Set, Go” method for emergency evacuations, here are the basics. 

• READY for potential evacuation.  Create an evacuation plan and be sure that all household members are familiar with the plan. Gather all emergency supplies and create an emergency supply kit. Be up to date with your insurance and take a video home inventory. Closely monitor the situation.  

• SET to evacuate. Prepare to leave at a moment’s notice!  Start packing your vehicle and back your car into the driveway to ensure quick and seamless evacuation. If you feel threatened don’t wait for a final evacuation notice, just go! 

• GO! Evacuate immediately! Make sure all household members are accounted for.  Have several predetermined evacuation routes planned and choose the safest one. Head to your designated safe location (relative’s house, motel, etc.). GO! 

What to bring with you: 

• Clothing, Personal care items, sleeping bags, pillows, towels etc.. 

• Prescription medication and medical supplies. 

• Pets with carriers and food. 

• Eyeglasses. 

• Important documents, money, checkbooks, credit cards 

• Valuables, cellphone with charger. 

• Anything else you think you will need. 

While CodeRED offers time sensitive alerts- the Cook County Know Your Zone Map stays up to date with current evacuation zone statue throughout the county. To know if your property is in an evacuation zone, please refer to Cook County’s Know Your Zone Map: https://cookcountymn.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2f0cb0740663455e9fe5c47b7fdb2379 

 If you choose to leave the area, please fill out the Emergency Evacuation Form- this allows law enforcement and fire personnel to know residents are safe in the event of a “go” order. Emergency Evacuation Form: https://cookcountymn.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=2f0cb0740663455e9fe5c47b7fdb2379 

If you experience issues or have questions about emergency alerts or protocols, please contact Emergency Management Director, Mike Keyport, 218-387-3059 or the Sheriff’s Office, 218 387-3030.