Are you ready for WEA messages on your phone? What they are and who will be getting them...

Don’t be surprised if you start to get some messages on your phone that you don’t recognize... 

The CTIA Wireless Association and the FCC are about to roll out what they describe as a robust, wireless emergency alert system – or WEA. Here’s what the WEAs will consist of:

• Presidential Alerts – Alerts issued by the President or a designate.

• Imminent Threat Alerts – Alerts that include severe man-made or natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tornadoes, where an imminent threat to life or property exists.

• AMBER Alerts – Alerts that meet the U.S. Department of Justice’s criteria to help law enforcement locate an abducted child.

These alerts will appear similar to a text message - and you WON’T be charged for them. The cell tower you are closest too is what determines which WEAs are relevant to you. You won’t need to sign up for these alerts, they’re automatic – but you could opt out if you choose. Not all devices are WEA capable – some will require a software upgrade. Check your carrier’s website for the list of WEA capable devices – or go to CTIA.org.