Nationwide SMS Alert System

The FCC, in an effort to increase the ability to share time sensitive information, is expected to create a nationwide SMS-based alert system. The alert system will most likely be adopted by the major US cell phone carriers. Alerts, relating to natural disasters, attacks, child abductions, etc. will be sent to your cell phone or mobile device by text messaging. The time frame on this alert system is to be up and running within a 10 month timeframe. Additionally, details have been released stating that disabled users can get the alert via special vibrations or audible alerts. As of now an undetermined government agency will send a message to all voluntary message carriers, who will then forward the message to individuals.

“A nationwide alert system will use cell phones or other mobile devices to send text messages to Americans when an emergency occurs, the Federal Communications Commission will announce Wednesday, according to an FCC representative. The representative said cell phone companies that voluntarily opt into the system would send text-based alert messages to subscribers in response to three types of events:

- A disaster that could jeopardize the health and safety of Americans, such as a terrorist attack; these would trigger a national alert from the president of the United States.

- Imminent or ongoing threats such as hurricanes, tornadoes or earthquakes.

- Child abductions or Amber alerts.”

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