Alabama Emergency Management Agency announced today that ALERT FM has been successfully implemented in nine west central Alabama counties.  Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, and Wilcox counties are the first counties in the State using this new emergency notification technology. AEMA purchased this system for these counties using National Weather Service grant funding obtained for this project.

ALERT FM is an FM radio-based emergency notification system that allows county officials to send targeted messages to residents, schools, businesses, and first responders who are equipped with an ALERT FM receiver. Types of messages that might be received include weather warnings, school closings, and evacuation notices and instructions. Receivers will be available for purchase at local hardware or electronics retailers in the area for around $40.

“ALERT FM allows broadcasters across the State to strengthen their commitment to keeping their communities safe. It allows them to participate in a network that provides targeted, potentially life-saving information to first responders, businesses, and citizens,” said Sharon Tinsley, president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association.