Keeping Citizens Informed
CPD Alert
What is Rave/Smart911?
Smart911 is a profile-based alert system (CPD Alert) the Chelmsford Police Department uses to send out emergency notifications via text message, phone call, and/or email. In addition to emergency alerts, Smart911 also provides General Alerts for road closures, detours, and community notifications. After signing up through the Smart911 portal, you can add important details about yourself, and choose what alerts you would like to receive.
During an emergency, time is critical. Smart911 ensures you are notified immediately so you can take life-saving actions. Alerts can be delivered through phone calls, text messages, emails, or app notifications. You can also update your profile at any time through the Smart911 app or website.
When the Chelmsford Police Department determines that an alert should be issued—either town-wide or specific to your area—you will receive a notification via the delivery methods you selected (text, phone call, email, or app).
Smart911 is provided at no cost by the Town of Chelmsford and the Chelmsford Police Department. Standard messaging or data rates may apply depending on your carrier.
No. While Smart911 is an industry-leading alert system, delivery cannot be guaranteed in all cases. Emergencies are unpredictable, and external factors such as wireless carrier outages, email delays, or system issues may impact delivery. However, Smart911 uses multiple methods and technologies to maximize reliability.
If you no longer wish to receive alerts, log in to your Smart911 account and click on Account Settings to remove your profile.
SIGNING UP
How do I sign up?
Who can sign up?
Anyone who lives, works, travels through, or visits the Town of Chelmsford can sign up. You can register your home, workplace, or any other Chelmsford address you want to receive alerts for.
Will I receive alerts if I don’t sign up?
Chelmsford residents with a landline may receive alerts in extremely critical situations. However, these are limited circumstances. To ensure you receive all alerts (emergency and general), you must register through the Smart911 website or the Smart911 app.
ALERTS
I don’t have a computer or smartphone—who can help me sign up?
You can:
What types of alerts will I receive?
Can I reply to alerts?
Yes. If you respond to an alert by text, email, or phone call, your reply will be sent to the system administrator. However, for urgent matters, please call the Chelmsford Police directly at (978)-256-2521 ext. 0, or dial 911.
When will I start receiving alerts?
Alerts begin once you register and confirm your contact information.
How do I update my contact information or preferences?
How often will I receive alerts?
The frequency depends on your location and preferences. Emergency alerts are rare and only issued for immediate threats. General alerts are sent as needed for events such as road closures or severe weather.
What if my phone is busy or I don’t answer?
The system will retry the call several times. If the call goes to voicemail, a detailed voice message will be left.
PRIVACY
Will my information be shared?
No. Your information is kept private and will not be disclosed or sold. For details, see the Smart911 Privacy Policy and Frequently Asked Questions.