Under the new program, dubbed the Personal Localized Alerting Network (PLAN), individuals will receive cell phone alerts from the government about emergencies occurring where they live.

 

Developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), subscribers will receive alerts even when cell towers are jammed with traffic.

The alerts are free to receive, but require special software and a specific hardware chip that are currently found in most new high-end phones like the Apple iPhone.

In announcing the launch of PLAN, FEMA administrator W. Craig Fugate said, “Following the devastating tornadoes in the Southeast, we are witnessing yet again the critical role the public plays as part of our nation’s emergency management team.”

Fugate continued, “Making sure that they get useful and life-saving information, quickly and easily, right on their mobile phones, will help more people get out of harm’s way when a threat exists. This new technology could become a lifeline for millions of Americans and is another tool that will strengthen our nation’s resilience against all hazards.”

The program will first be rolled out in New York City by the end of the year and officials expect to have nationwide coverage in 2012.

To issue emergency alerts that warn of natural disasters or terrorist attacks, FEMA will work in conjunction with AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. Officials at PLAN would first confirm the emergency message and then relay it to wireless carriers, who would then distribute a mass text message to all residents in the affected areas.

Cell phone users will only receive alerts issued by the president, alerts about imminent threats to safety or life, and Amber Alerts for missing or abducted children.

Subscribers with new phones will be automatically enrolled in the system, but can choose to not receive messages at any time.