Emergency Alert Systems
Get critical warnings when seconds count
Why Emergency Alerts Matter
In a disaster, receiving timely and accurate information can be the difference between life and death. Emergency alert systems provide critical warnings about severe weather, public safety threats, and other hazards, giving you precious time to take protective action.
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)
Federal System
Wireless Emergency Alerts are emergency messages sent by authorized government alerting authorities through your mobile carrier. WEA messages are free, require no sign-up, and are automatically received if you have a compatible device.
Types of WEA Alerts:
- Presidential Alerts: Issued by the President or FEMA Administrator during national emergencies
- Imminent Threat Alerts: Warnings about severe weather or other immediate dangers to life and property
- AMBER Alerts: Notifications about abducted children
WEA Characteristics:
- Distinctive alert tone and vibration
- 90-360 character message with essential information
- Geo-targeted to affected areas only
- No cost to receive alerts
- Not affected by network congestion
- Available on most smartphones since 2012
How to Check WEA on Your Phone:
- iPhone: Settings > Notifications > scroll to bottom for Government Alerts
- Android: Settings > Apps & notifications > Advanced > Emergency alerts
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
National Weather Service
A nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the National Weather Service. NOAA Weather Radio is the most comprehensive source of weather warnings and forecasts.
Coverage:
- Weather warnings and forecasts
- Severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings
- Hurricane and tropical storm information
- Flood and flash flood warnings
- Winter storm warnings
- Non-weather emergencies (via Emergency Alert System)
Features of NOAA Weather Radios:
- 24/7 broadcasts from NWS offices
- SAME (Specific Area Message Encoding) technology
- Programmable for specific counties
- Loud alarm alerts for warnings
- Battery backup for power outages
- Automatic activation for urgent alerts
Recommended Radio Features:
- SAME technology for location-specific alerts
- Multiple power options (AC, battery, hand-crank)
- External antenna jack for better reception
- Adjustable alert tones
- AM/FM capability for general news
Local Emergency Alert Systems
Community-Based
Many communities operate local emergency notification systems that complement federal alert systems. These provide targeted information about local emergencies, evacuation orders, and community-specific threats.
Common Local Alert Methods:
- Reverse 911: Automated phone calls to landlines and registered cell phones
- Text Alerts: SMS messages for registered mobile numbers
- Email Notifications: Detailed information sent to registered email addresses
- Outdoor Sirens: Tornado sirens and community warning systems
- Mobile Apps: Local emergency management apps
- Social Media: Twitter, Facebook alerts from local agencies
How to Sign Up:
- Contact your local emergency management office
- Visit your county or city emergency management website
- Look for "emergency alerts," "CodeRED," "Nixle," or similar programs
- Register all phone numbers, including cell phones
- Provide multiple contact methods (phone, text, email)
- Update your information when you move
Common Local Alert Platform Names:
- CodeRED
- Nixle
- Smart911
- Everbridge
- AlertSense
- Blackboard Connect
Emergency Alert System (EAS)
Broadcast System
The Emergency Alert System is a national public warning system that requires broadcasters, cable television systems, and satellite providers to provide the President with communications capability during national emergencies.
EAS Alert Types:
- National Emergency Messages
- Severe weather warnings
- Child abduction emergencies (AMBER Alerts)
- Local emergency information
- Hazardous materials incidents
- Natural disasters
How EAS Works:
- Interrupts normal programming automatically
- Distinctive attention signal (header tones)
- Audio message with emergency information
- Crawling text on television screens
- Reaches TV, radio, cable, and satellite
Complete Alert Setup Checklist
Enable WEA on All Mobile Devices
Check settings on smartphones and tablets for all family members. Ensure government alerts are turned on.
Purchase NOAA Weather Radio
Buy a weather radio with SAME technology and battery backup. Place in bedroom or main living area.
Register for Local Alerts
Sign up for your county and city emergency notification systems. Include all phone numbers and email addresses.
Download Weather and Emergency Apps
Install official apps from NWS, FEMA, American Red Cross, and local emergency management.
Follow Local Agencies on Social Media
Follow your local emergency management, police, fire, and National Weather Service offices.
Test Alert Systems Regularly
Verify you receive test messages. Update contact information when you move or change phone numbers.
Mobile Apps for Emergency Alerts
FEMA App
Official FEMA app with weather alerts, emergency safety tips, and disaster resources. Receive notifications for up to five locations nationwide.
Red Cross Emergency App
Severe weather alerts, safety tips, hospital locator, and emergency toolkit. Separate apps for different hazard types.
Weather.gov Mobile
National Weather Service official mobile site with forecasts, warnings, radar, and current conditions.
Don't Wait for an Emergency
Set up your emergency alerts today and ensure your family stays informed
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