Stay Informed: How to Sign Up for Local Emergency Alerts

Since 2013, natural disasters have impacted nearly 90% of U.S. counties, highlighting the critical need for effective early warning systems. Despite widespread awareness about preparing emergency kits, a recent FEMA survey reveals a concerning decline in the number of people signed up to receive emergency alerts and warnings. Early warning systems are vital for saving lives during disasters, and ensuring you receive these alerts on your phone, via text, or email is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to activate your phone’s emergency alerts and sign up for your county’s alert system.

Understanding Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are essential tools used by authorities to disseminate emergency information quickly to the community. Most modern mobile phones are equipped to receive WEAs, and these alerts are typically enabled by default. However, the distinctive alarm sound—an insistent and loud blare accompanied by vibrations—might lead some users to disable these alerts.

WEAs use cell towers to broadcast notifications to all WEA-capable phones within a specific area. This means you will receive alerts for your current location rather than your home address. Occasionally, some individuals outside the target area might also receive these alerts, depending on the technology.

To ensure you receive WEAs, follow these instructions for your device:

On iPhones:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select Notifications.
3. Scroll down to the bottom of the Notifications section and find GOVERNMENT ALERTS.
4. Toggle the switch next to Public Safety Alerts to enable it (the switch turns green). These alerts provide recommendations for saving lives and property.
5. Tap on Emergency Alerts.
6. Ensure that Emergency Alerts are toggled on.
7. Consider enabling Local Awareness to enhance the timeliness and accuracy of emergency alerts in the U.S.

On Android Devices:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and select Safety & emergency.
3. Tap on Wireless emergency alerts at the bottom of the screen.
4. Ensure that Allow alerts is toggled on.
5. Enable or disable Extreme threats and Severe threats according to your preference.
6. Toggle Public safety messages to choose whether to receive alerts with recommended actions to protect life and property.

For further instructions, you can refer to Apple’s page for iPhone alerts or visit the “Android Help” page for Android devices.

The Necessity of Local Text or Email Alerts

While WEAs are a crucial component of emergency communication, they are not always used by local authorities. For example, during the 2018 Camp Fire in California, Butte County relied on emergency alerts, door-knocking, vehicle-mounted speakers, and social media, but did not use WEAs. A 2023 report revealed that fewer than 40% of Paradise residents had signed up for county alerts at that time.

Local alert systems provide timely and specific information that may not be covered by WEAs. For instance, Riverside County highlights the importance of local mass notification services like RiversideAlert for receiving more localized and precise alerts.

There is no uniform emergency alert system across the United States, so the enrollment process and features of local notification systems can vary widely. Common alert types include notifications for extreme situations, such as evacuations, and other local alerts like missing persons or police activity. Before signing up, understand what types of alerts your local system offers and customize your preferences.

When enrolling, you will typically need to provide your mobile number, email, and street address. Many systems allow you to register multiple addresses, such as your workplace or children’s schools. You may also be able to choose how you receive alerts (via call, text, or email) and select language and accessibility options.

Emergency alert systems are often managed by third-party providers such as OnSolve CodeRED, Everbridge, Rave Mobile Safety’s Smart 911, and Genasys. If your local government uses a third-party system, you will be directed to their website for enrollment. Once registered, save the alert numbers to your Contacts and ensure they are not blocked by your phone’s Do Not Disturb features.

How to Sign Up for County Alerts

To stay informed and ready for emergencies, it’s essential to register for your county’s emergency alert system. Keeping up with local alerts ensures you receive timely and relevant information. Visit your county’s website to enroll in their notification system and confirm that you’re signed up for both Wireless Emergency Alerts and local alerts. Regularly verify and update your settings to enhance your safety and preparedness.