WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate today adopted a wireless emergency alert system as part of a larger comprehensive port security bill it is debating.  The Senate included language from a Commerce Committee approved bill to establish the Warning, Alert, and Response Network (WARN). WARN is a national system for the transmission of public safety alerts across a broad variety of communications technologies including  wireless technologies.  The Senate action today essentially moves the Emergency Alert System out of the era of the broadcast radio and television and into the wireless era.   In addition to the threat posed by terrorist attacks, the system created by this amendment will give our emergency managers the ability to alert communities of other hazards such as natural disasters and manmade accidents.

 

“With hurricane season upon us, we are reminded of how critical the WARN system is to help ensure that we are prepared for busy storm seasons," said Commerce Chairman Stevens. "Considering the National Hurricane Center's continued predictions, we cannot afford to wait any longer. The United States could be hit with major hurricanes again this year, and the House must act swiftly to implement this important warning system."

 

The amendment approved ensures that when disaster strikes, the wireless network will be able to be used as a tool so that almost all Americans will be notified through radio, television and wireless communications devices. There are over 200 million wireless subscribers in the United States.   Additionally capabilities will allow other emergency managers to reach individuals away from their TVs or radios with specific life saving instructions.