Summary
Timely information is crucial before, during and after a disaster unfolds. We have many credible sources where it can be found in Oklahoma. In fact, some alerts will automatically come to you if your devices are configured properly!
This 6-post toolkit was released as part of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management's yearlong 12 Ways to Prepare social media campaign in 2024. This campaign aimed to meet residents where they were at with informational action items, encouraging them to be #ReadyOK while equipping them to that end. January introduced the campaign and focused on Sign Up for Alerts and Warnings, urging Oklahomans to have #MultipleWays to receive alerts.
1. Kickoff
We’re kicking off the New Year with 12 Ways #YouCan Prepare for whatever 2024 might throw your way 🥳 Find more on each step on our new webpage at https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways.html.
We’ll be highlighting each of these 12 Ways in greater detail throughout the year, starting with Signing Up for Alerts and Warnings this month! Thanks for following along–we hope you find it helpful
#YouCan #ResolveToBeReady #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay #NewYear2024
2. Intro
(1/12) We understand wanting to tune out the world, but when things go really wrong, you need multiple ways to receive emergency alerts and warnings. Are you set to be notified in times of disaster? Visit https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/alertsandwarnings.html for more information.
#YouCan #ResolveToBeReady #12WaysToBePrepared #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
3. IPAWS
There are multiple ways to receive #AlertsandWarnings, but we’re starting with what most Oklahomans rely on: the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS). Through this, federal, state, local and tribal officials can send alerts 3️⃣ ways, including the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) you may have seen on your cell phone (think Severe Weather Warnings or Amber Alerts).
But❗if your cell phone is off, on airplane mode, lost or dead, you won't be able to receive WEAs 🤔
You'll also need a way to receive messages from IPAWS’ Emergency Alert System (EAS), which sends emergency messages through broadcast TV and radio, satellite digital audio services, direct broadcast satellite providers, cable television systems and wireless cable systems. So, when things get rough, tune in to your favorite TV channel or radio station. We suggest your local news 😉
But ⚠️ if the power goes out (and it likely will in an emergency), you'll need a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency broadcasts from NOAA Weather Radio (NWR). NWR broadcasts official National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24-7.
Visit https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/alertsandwarnings.html for more information.
#YouCan #SignUpforAlertsandWarnings #12WaysToBePrepared #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
4. Local Alerts & Warnings
Another way to receive important alerts and warnings is to seek out and sign up for #LocalAlerts ❗ Many news stations, news websites, school districts and city or county entities offer opt-in systems for emergency alerts. Check in your area today.
Many of those same entities maintain robust social media accounts with up-to-date information. Consider giving those in your area a follow.
#YouCan #SignUpforAlertsandWarnings #12WaysToBePrepared #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
5. Trouble-shooting WEAs
Most cell phones automatically receive WEAs, but if yours doesn’t, you can troubleshoot using the tips below:
1. Check the settings on your mobile device and review your user manual (you may be able to find this online, too). Older phones may not be WEA capable, and some cell phone models require you to enable WEAs. Some mobile service providers call these messages “Government Alerts,” or “Emergency Alert Messages.”
(If you've opted out of these messages in the past, be sure to opt back in or you will miss emergent weather alerts)
2. Check with your wireless provider to see if they can resolve the issue. All major phone providers and some smaller providers participate in WEA.
Find alternative ways to receive emergency #AlertsandWarnings at https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/alertsandwarnings.html
#YouCan #SignUpforAlertsandWarnings #12WaysToBePrepared #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
6. FEMA Mobile App
Another cool tool you can use to receive emergency #AlertsandWarnings is the FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency mobile app 😎
The FEMA app allows you to receive real-time weather and emergency alerts in up to 5️⃣ locations, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area, get preparedness strategies and more.
Learn more at https://www.ready.gov/fema-app.
#YouCan #SignUpforAlertsandWarnings #12WaysToBePrepared #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
