I think this is a great idea… especially in this day and age, where people are using cell phones like crazy. I mean, it’s hard to find anyone who’s not carrying a cell phone these days. Even kids carry cell phones everywhere they go!
So, for me, there is a small feeling of relief knowing that the FCC will soon be broadcasting emergency warnings on our cellphones.
he plan stems from the Warning Alert and Response Network Act, a 2006 federal law that requires upgrades to the emergency alert system. The act requires the Federal Communications Commission to develop ways to alert the public about emergencies. Source
Fun Facts:
- The text messaging will be used to inform the public of things like major weather situations, Amber alerts, mass shootings, and terrorist attacks.
- A text message could be sent to a county, region, state or the entire nation.
- You would not be changed for receiving these alerts, but cellphone customers will be able to opt out of the program.
- The program is projected to be operational by 2010.
SOURCES:
FCC Approves Emergency Alert Text Messaging Service (CNN)
Text Alerts To Cellphones In Emergency Are Approved (New York Times)
Nationwide Cellphone Alert System In The Works (USA Today)
Cell Phone Alert System Proposed By The FCC (CNN Money)
As a homeowner, I primarily write about weather safety tips that everyone should know in order to protect their home and family during major weather events. I especially like to share seasonal "outside the box" ideas that most wouldn't think of in the Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall. The weather events I've personally experienced include: Hurricanes (while living in Florida), Tornadoes (while living in Indiana, Texas, and Tennessee), Earthquakes (while visiting California), Blizzards (while living in New York and Indiana), and Flooding (while living in Tennessee).
