Emergency Communication

Emergency Alert System (EAS)

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is an alert tool that can rapidly disseminate emergency information to the general public and can be initiated by local, state and federal officials. A national EAS alert may be activated during a national crisis by the President of the United States. A local EAS alert may be activated in response to local events such as severe weather, floods, industrial accidents, civil disorders, or any event that poses a danger to life or property.

The Amber Alert is part of the EAS system and is initiated by law enforcement. The EAS utilizes radio and television broadcasters to relay emergency information to residents. These messages interrupt programming on local television and radio stations and provide viewers and listeners with warnings and instructions on how to react in the event of an emergency.

Emergency Notification System (ENS)

The Emergency Notification System (ENS) is another mass notification service available to emergency management officials. During an emergency or disaster, it enables local authorities to contact affected individuals in a specific area within minutes via landlines, cell phone, text, and e-mail. An ENS message is delivered, providing warning and instructions for residents. There are currently three counties participating in this program, Bexar, Guadalupe, and Comal.

For more information and to register for this service please visit: https://www.saoemprepare.com/AlertSA

Accessible Hazard Alert System (AHAS)

Provides accessible alert messages to registered residents who are deaf, blind, hard of hearing, or deaf/blind before, during, and after an emergency or disaster in the City of San Antonio. AHAS subscribers will be able to receive accessible alert messages in American Sign Language (ASL) and English voice and text. Messages can be sent to internet and video capable computers, cell phones, smart phones, tablets, laptops, and wireless braille readers.

For more information and to register please visit: https://sat.ahasalerts.com/register.aspx or call 3-1-1