How to Set Up Emergency Alerts 

Emergency alerts save lives. In California, where wildfires, earthquakes, and other emergencies can happen quickly, getting the right alert at the right time is critical. But many standard alert systems rely on loud sounds or small text on a screen — and that does not work for everyone. 

If you are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have low vision or blindness, this blog is for you. California Connect is here to help you understand your options and take steps today to make sure you get emergency information in a way that works for you. 

What Are Wireless Emergency Alerts? 

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are messages sent directly to your mobile phone by government agencies. They cover three types of emergencies: 

• Extreme weather warnings (such as flash floods or tornadoes) 

• AMBER Alerts (missing children) 

• Presidential Alerts (for national emergencies) 

By default, these alerts make a loud sound and vibrate your phone. However, both iPhone and Android phones have built-in accessibility features that can help beyond these features. 

Setting Up Alerts on an iPhone 

Apple devices include several tools that can make emergency alerts more accessible. 

Turn on vibration for alerts: 

1. Go to Settings 

2. Tap Accessibility 

3. Tap Touch, then turn on Vibration 

Enable Flash for Alerts (LED light flashes when an alert arrives): 

1. Go to Settings 

2. Tap Accessibility 

3. Tap Audio & Visual 

4. Turn on LED Flash for Alerts 

Check your Emergency Alert settings: 

1. Go to Settings 

2. Tap Notifications 

3. Scroll to the bottom to find Government Alerts 

4. Make sure Emergency Alerts and Public Safety Alerts are turned on 

If you use VoiceOver, your phone will also read alerts aloud. To turn on VoiceOver, go to Settings > Accessibility > VoiceOver and toggle it on. 

California Connect offers free Apple accessibility training. Visit caconnect.org to learn more. 

Setting Up Alerts on an Android Phone 

Android devices also have built-in options to make alerts more accessible. 

Turn on vibration and visual alerts: 

1. Open Settings 

2. Tap Accessibility 

3. Look for Hearing Enhancements or Flash Notifications 

4. Turn on Flash Notification so the camera flash blinks during alerts 

Check your Emergency Alert settings: 

1. Open the Messages app (or phone's messaging settings) 

2. Tap the three-dot menu, then Settings 

3. Tap Emergency Alerts 

4. Make sure alerts are turned on and that Vibration is enabled 

Android also supports TalkBack, a screen reader that reads text on your screen out loud. To turn on TalkBack, go to Settings > Accessibility > TalkBack. 

California Connect provides free Android accessibility training. Visit caconnect.org to find a course near you. 

Register for Local Emergency Notification Systems 

Many California counties have their own emergency alert systems that let you choose how you receive alerts — by text, email, or TTY/TDD. Registering means you can receive alerts in a format that works best for you. 

To find your county's system: 

• Search for your county name plus "emergency alerts" or "Nixle" or "Alert SoCal" (for Southern California residents) 

• Visit your county's official website and look for an Office of Emergency Services page 

• Ask your local library or community center for help registering 

When you register, look for options to receive text messages or email notifications in addition to phone calls. 

Apps That Can Help 

Several apps are designed to improve emergency awareness for people with disabilities. 

• ReadyAlert / FEMA App — The FEMA app sends weather and disaster alerts and lets you choose text-based notifications. It is free and available for iPhone and Android. 

• Weather Channel App — Offers customizable alerts with text and push notifications. 

• Rave Guardian / Smart911 — Lets you create a safety profile so emergency responders know your communication needs before they arrive. 

When setting up any alert app, look for settings that allow vibration, banner notifications, or screen flash, so you do not miss an alert. 

If You Use a Hearing Device or Cochlear Implant 

Many modern hearing aids and cochlear implants can connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth. When your phone receives an emergency alert, you may be able to receive the audio directly through your hearing device. 

A Note on Visual Alerts at Home 

Emergency alerts are not limited to your phone. If you are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, visual alert devices for your home can also help you stay informed during an emergency. These devices can connect to smoke detectors, doorbell systems, and other alarms to send flashing light signals throughout your home. 

Act Today 

You do not need to wait for an emergency to prepare. Here are three things you can do right now: 

1. Check your phone's emergency alert settings and make sure vibration and visual notifications are turned on. 

2. Register for your county's local emergency alert system to receive alerts by text or email. 

3. Download the FEMA app and customize your alert preferences. 

Small steps taken today can make a big difference when an emergency happens. If you need help setting up accessibility features on your phone, California Connect is here to support you. 

About California Connect 

California Connect is a CPUC-funded assistive technology program that provides free communication devices and training to eligible Californians with speech, hearing, vision, or mobility disabilities. Learn more and apply at caconnect.org.