BOSTON — As part of its ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the state. Massachusetts officials have launched a “Wireless Emergency Alert,” which will be going into effect in several high-risk communities on Monday evening.
The alert serves as a reminder of the high risk for infection in 10 cities and towns: Chelsea, Everett, Lawrence, Lynn, Nantucket, New Bedford, Revere, Framingham, Winthrop and Worcester.
Residents in nearby communities may also receive the alert due to cell tower locations. Aside from the other efforts to fight the novel coronavirus in the state, the alert is another important message to remind residents to remain vigilant - wear masks, get tested and stay home if they feel sick, stop having gatherings and practice social distancing.
The state has already launched other initiatives to stop the spread, including deploying field teams, paid advertising and other communications to remind residents that the pandemic is not over.
Here is an example of what the alert will look like. It’ll be sent out between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. in English and Spanish (each community’s name will be included in each city or town’s message to localize the alert):
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Boston 25 spoke to people who received the alert, who said the initial alert notice was loud, like an amber alert or severe weather alert.
“I knew it was not a regular text so I ran over to look at it and I was surprised that it was for COVID," said Brendan Monahan, a Worcester resident.
Monahan says he didn’t mind the text once he knew what it was saying.
“You know, anything you can do to get the word out about being careful around this is a good thing, it just took me by surprise," said Monahan.
He added that it can help be a reminder to people who may not be following the guidelines.
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