Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA)

From The Office of Public Safety and Emergency Management:

If you have upgraded your cell phone recently you may be unaware of a new emergency alert feature that is now required on all new phones. This new feature is known as Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA). Being aware of what WEAs are and what they mean may help you, and your family, avoid a dangerous situation.

·         The most common WEAs are weather-related. If you receive a WEA it is because there is an imminent threat in your immediate area. For example, if you receive a WEA about a Tornado Warning it means that a Tornado may form close to where you are currently located and you should take cover immediately.

·         WEAs are now available on Apple iPhone (4s and newer), Samsung Galaxy (SII and newer), and Motorola Droids.

·         WEAs will look like a text message, but are free of charge and have a distinct ring.

·         WEAs are based on the physical location of your phone, not on where the phone is registered.

·         You will receive WEAs on your phone before you receive MC Alerts or any other alerts you may have registered for.

·         When you receive a WEA, your phone will require you to acknowledge it before you can use your phone again.

·         Always take recommended action when you receive a WEA on your phone.

For more safety information please visit our website at: www.montgomerycollege.edu/emergency