School leaders in Madison are encouraging parents to use a free, online service to receive real-time alerts and messages from the police department.

“It’s called Nixle,” Dennis James said about the communication tool. “I encourage you to consider signing up for this service. In times of emergency, getting information to the public is important.” James works as coordinator of safety, security, communications and student services for Madison City Schools.

To use Nixle, visit nixle.com and click the “Sign Up Free” option. On the sign-up page, type your email address, password, full name and mobile phone number. After registering, you can add up to five additional zip codes, which define the geographic areas from which you will receive alerts.

During the week of Oct. 29, Madison Police Department issued Nixle alerts about a structure fire, traffic congestion and the escape of three residents from Three Springs Inc. youth facility.

“Madison City Schools and the Madison Police Department work as partners to provide a safe learning environment for all our students,” James said. “Nixle is one more way to stay informed. We rely greatly on Madison police and their expertise. They are always willing to help.”

In June, Capt. John Stringer with the Madison Police Department led a crime prevention session at City Hall and suggested Nixle to optimize new technology in crime prevention. On the Nixle website, “you type 35758 for Madison’s zip code or 35801 for Huntsville to receive Nixle messages,” he said.

The Nixle software is helping government agencies, businesses and school systems to communicate securely with online platforms. The company’s product line consists of standalone and customized solutions for safe and simple service options.

Across the United States, communities are using Nixle’s free service for ‘instant’ news and information that relates to a specific geographic area, as defined by zip codes. In addition, the company now is releasing new paid-for services for consumers.

For more information, visit nixle.com.