Expands #MdReady to Better Reach Hispanic Community Before, During, and After Emergencies
The Maryland Emergency Management (MEMA) announced today it has expanded its existing text alert program, #MdReady, in partnership with 211-MD so users can receive text alerts in Spanish.
#MdReady allows people to opt-in to receive updates, tips, and alerts about COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland. #MdListo is its counterpart in Spanish.
“With #MdListo we will be able to reach individuals who prefer text communications in Spanish,” said Russ Strickland, MEMA’s Executive Director. “Strong communications is important to us as emergency managers. To be able to reach and engage a growing segment of our state’s population in their preferred language is a win-win.”
According to a MEMA press release:
To opt into the program text MdReady (for English) or MdListo (for Spanish) to the number 898-211. MEMA also reminds Maryland residents that 211-MD has translators in Spanish and 180 other languages ready to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can reach a 211-MD representative to get help with food, housing and shelter, substance abuse, and mental health, in the following ways:
- Dial 211
- Text your zip code to 898-211
- Chat online through their website: 211md.org/chat-with-us
MEMA encourages Marylanders to sign up for #MdReady or #MdListo and reminds residents to visit KnowYourZoneMd.com as we are in the peak of hurricane season. For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit MEMA, Ready.gov, the National Weather Service, and the American Red Cross.
