A program to create a nationwide alert system using cell phones and other mobile devices was approved Thursday by the Federal Communications Commission.
The system would send text messages to Americans when an emergency occurs.
The FCC 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.
T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint Nextel and AT&T all stated that they would be likely to opt into the alert system if it is passed by the FCC.
via [CNN]
April 10th, 2008 - 6:31 pm
This is really interesting! It is a great idea when you think about how quickly and widespread a text alert system would workd.
Will TEXT replace the old TV system…”This is only a TEST!”
April 12th, 2008 - 2:18 pm
Steve: Great point! I do think that a national SMS alert system would be more prevalent than the older TV broadcast alert version. If you consider that most people have mobile phones in the US and they can receive these alerts even when they aren’t at home.
Personally I’m very excited about this FCC regulation. How many times can you say that in a life-time :p