The Community Warning System (CWS) is Contra Costa County’s official emergency alert system. CWS alerts may be issued at the request of County Officials—such as law enforcement, fire agencies, or the County Health Officer—to warn people in affected areas that they are, or may soon be, in danger and should take immediate protective action to protect life or health. A CWS alert can provide basic information about the emergency and tells people what protective action they need to take. Examples of