Reverse 9-1-1 calls

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Residents in Ware were alerted of Sunday's hazardous materials situation after receiving an automated reverse 9-1-1 call.

This kind of call is part of the town's emergency notification system, which many cities and towns in Massachusetts have. They are a vital community outreach tool that can warn residents of potentially dangerous situations--or even non-critical ones. The calls also can help reach those who may be needed quickly for an emergency--like personnel and volunteers. The system works with the police and can contact residents in a specific area.

Just last week, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno was reminding residents and businesses to register and update their contact information for the city's reverse 9-1-1 call system. If you live in Springfield and would like to add your number to the list, contact the city's 3-1-1 call center or go to the city's website .

For those not living in Springfield, most town or city websites have a feature that will allow you to automatically sign-up. However, if you don't want to go through the process on your computer, you can always call your local town/city offices for more information.