Important Emergency Alert Sources
What is an emergency alert? Local entities and national organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the National Weather Service (NWS) provide important alerts and warnings to local communities whenever emergencies are present. Using different technologies, these organizations relay critical information and sometimes order evacuations so residents can take immediate action to stay safe. Find out the primary methods for broadcasting emergencies and weather advisories, watches, and warnings below. You can utilize various methods and technologies to access different types of emergency alerts, including weather alerts. Here are some common ways to access weather emergency alerts:
Mobile Apps
Many smartphone apps provide real-time weather updates and alerts. Popular weather apps include The Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and Weather Underground. These apps often allow you to customize your notification settings to receive severe weather alerts for your location.
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)
Wireless Emergency Alerts are text-like messages sent to mobile devices by authorized government agencies. These alerts are typically used for extreme weather conditions, AMBER alerts, and presidential alerts. They are sent based on the location of your mobile device and do not require a subscription. Ensure that you have WEA enabled in your device's settings.
National Weather Service (NWS)
The National Weather Service operates weather radio stations across the United States, broadcasting continuous weather updates and alerts. You can purchase a NOAA Weather Radio receiver to access these broadcasts and receive alerts for your area. Some weather apps also provide access to NWS alerts.
Television
Through the Emergency Alert System (EAS), critical emergency information such as imminent threats, AMBER Alerts, and threats that pertain to specific communities are broadcast through the television and radio. Broadcasters, cable television providers, and wireless cable systems must provide the President with the ability to address the public within 10 minutes if a national emergency is imminent. Local and state organizations may also use the EAS to deliver crucial emergency information to specific communities.
Since television providers and wireless cable systems are required to issue these crucial messages, signing up to receive information from the EAS is optional.
Radio
A national network of radio stations that provide continuous information from the NWS, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) system relays official weather warnings, watches, forecasts, and hazard information on a 24/7 basis. The comprehensive weather and emergency warning system also broadcasts alerts of non-weather emergencies, including national security and public safety information. You'll need a particular weather radio receiver to receive broadcasts from the NWS. Many retailers sell receivers that meet specific technical requirements. Look for the Public Alert or National Weather Service logo on the device.
Online Weather Services
Websites such as the National Weather Service and commercial weather websites provide up-to-date weather information and alerts. You can customize your location to receive specific weather alerts for your area.
Social Media
Many official weather agencies and organizations, including the National Weather Service, share weather alerts on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Follow their official accounts for real-time updates and alerts.
Digital Road Signs
IPAWS messages are often relayed via digital road signs, sirens, and other methods to alert drivers and passengers of emergencies. That way, you can stay informed even if you're away from devices.
Then they come in through your cell phone, portable battery-powered radio, or another device. You can even download apps like FEMA, the American Red Cross, and The Weather Channel to get up-to-date information, so you can act fast and help protect yourself, your family, and your home from the worst.
While many restoration contractors claim they act as a partner to their clients, ServiceMaster Restore is the only restoration provider who works in complete partnership. We provide our clients with access to our very own SMR Mobile Alert App. With a push to dial button, you will never have to worry about finding our number again. Tap on the emergency button on the bottom right corner of the screen and you will automatically connect with our emergency ServiceMaster Restore call center.
SMR Mobile App
From hurricane tracking with potential property impacts to regional rain events, wildfires, polar vortex reports, and more, this app will allow you to receive customized weather alerts right to your cell phone. This app brings you the most current resources to help your business minimize business interruption. To learn more about the SMR mobile app contact 844.215.7619 or visit ServiceMasterRestore.com.
It's essential to stay informed and be prepared for severe weather events by accessing multiple sources of information. Consider subscribing to multiple alert systems to receive alerts through different channels, ensuring you don't miss critical information. Additionally, always follow the instructions and guidance provided by local authorities during severe weather events to stay safe.