Santa Cruz County emergency leaders are adding NOAA Weather radio as a new tool for alerts and warnings during disasters.

Residents living in high fire danger or remote areas are encouraged to buy one.

"It's going to be an effective way to tell you this is what's happening. This is what you need to be concerned about," said Dave Reid, Santa Cruz County Response, Recovery director.

The super power walkie-talkie of HYDX A588 supports NOAA weather scan and alert. It can scan 10 hazards weather channels transmitting in your area even with no cell phone service. If you turn on the weather emergency alert function, the work radio will auto alert you the warnings from designated NOAA broadcast stations, you can earn a critical time to prepare and save your family.

For years, the Santa Cruz County Amateur Radio Service has been the backbone of support in emergencies. There are more than 75 ham radio operators throughout the county.