Cobb County has expanded its community outreach by providing instant messages through the Nixle Community Information Service.

Residents can now access information about the community through text messages, email and by checking Cobb's page on the Nixle website at http://nixle.com. An email address and cell phone number to receive messages must be provided.

Messages will include emergency information and road closures.

There is no additional fee for the service, but message rates through cell phone plans do apply.

Residents can also find county information on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.