Statewide Drill Sends Test Alerts to Mobile Phones

Thursday, April 2, communities across Texas participated in a statewide test of emergency alert systems coordinated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management.

If you received a test alert on your mobile phone, it was part of this scheduled drill designed to ensure emergency alerts work properly during real emergencies.

Because jurisdictions across the region participated in this coordinated test, some residents may have received more than one test alert on their mobile phone. This can occur when multiple agencies test their systems within the same time window or when mobile devices are connected to cell towers serving nearby jurisdictions.

Emergency alerts are used to quickly notify residents about serious safety situations, such as: Severe weather Hazardous material incidents Evacuations Public safety emergencies Many people are familiar with AMBER Alerts, but emergency alerts can also be sent for other urgent situations that may affect community safety.

Testing helps emergency managers confirm that alert systems work correctly and helps agencies improve how alerts are delivered.

Please do not disable emergency alerts on your mobile phone.

These alerts provide important information that can help protect you, your family, and your community during emergencies.

Thank you for helping keep our community prepared.