Emergency Preparedness alerts sent to your cell phone

We’re all watching the flash flood tragedy in Texas and the discussions of whether or not emergency alerts were sent to residents. Los Angeles City and County offer several emergency alerts that you should consider adding to your cell phone or adding your email address to their website.

Official Systems:

· NotifyLA: This is the City of Los Angeles's official mass notification system. It sends alerts via phone calls, text messages, and email for emergencies and critical incidents in your neighborhood, schools, businesses, and other registered locations.

· Alert LA County: Los Angeles County uses Alert LA County as its opt-in mass notification program. It allows you to receive emergency alerts, such as evacuation orders, preparedness messages, and shelter-in-place instructions, through text, email, and/or phone calls. The Alert LA County mobile app provides free emergency and community notices, as well as National Weather Service alerts.

Additional Apps & Resources:

· Watch Duty: This free app gained popularity during the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires and is highly recommended by some residents. It provides real-time information on fire incidents, including maps showing burn areas, evacuation zones, and fire cameras.

· Nixle: This platform relays public safety information from various agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department and the LA County Sheriff’s Department. You can sign up for text alerts by texting your ZIP Code to 888777.

· ShakeAlert®: This earthquake early warning system uses the MyShake app to provide alerts when a major earthquake is detected, giving you a few seconds of warning.

· Citizen: This safety network app provides crime and safety alerts, real-time incident updates, and user-generated video streams. However, Citizen also offers a premium subscription service for a fee.

· LAIT911: This app offers real-time alerts for fire and police incidents in Los Angeles. It includes official agency press releases, fire department radio transmissions, and information on responding apparatus.

· FEMA App: The FEMA app provides real-time weather alerts from the National Weather Service and allows you to locate emergency shelters.

While multiple options are available, the City of Los Angeles strongly recommends using NotifyLA and Alert LA County for official emergency notifications. By signing up for both, you'll be covered by both city and county-level alerts. Additionally, consider exploring the other apps mentioned to enhance your emergency preparedness and awareness.