Public Alert and Warning Systems
The Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS) interposes a central FEMA facility between emergency alert originators such as local governments, and wireless providers (CMSPs) who forward the messages to citizens’ mobile devices.
Key materials concerning CMAS and the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) are on the FCC website at this link.
Text of FCC Report and Order Establishing CMAS [PDF]
This document prescribes the coverage area and specifications of CMAS alerts, and addresses commenters who filed questions and objections to the CMAS proposal.
FEMA Letter to FCC [PDF]
This February 2008 letter from FEMA to the FCC explains that FEMA does not have statutory authority “during non-emergency periods to develop, implement, operate or maintain elements of the CMAS that regard alerts, warnings or notifications originated by State and Local authorities.” The agency asked the FCC to delay CMAS until such legal issues are resolved.
FEMA Takes Aggregator/Gateway Role for Nationwide Alert System
After declining to become the central gatekeeper for emergency alerts to wireless customers, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has reversed position and will accept this role.
IPAWS Page of the FEMA National Continuity Program Directorate
08-11-2010