(Updated) It’s time to sign-up for the upgraded statewide emergency notification system. The new Alert Iowa System “Smart 911,” effective July 1^st, will replace the original Alert Iowa system implemented in 2014. Alert Iowa is a free service that allows individuals to receive notifications sent from local authorities to stay informed on potentially life-threatening and hazardous situations involving severe weather, law enforcement/security incidents, flooding, chemical releases, critical infrastructure disruptions, community-based alerts, and other emergencies and important information.

Even if you already have the current version of the Wireless Emergency Notification Systems (WENS) through Alert Iowa, you need to register on the new website, or through your respective county’s Facebook page. There, you will fill in the requested information, create a User ID (or use your e-mail), and a password. Cass County Emergency Management Coordinator Mike Kennon said the information from your current account (if you signed-up with the old system), will not transfer over to the Smart 911 system.

He says with the other system, some people had three different accounts, for one reason or another.

With this switch, residents of all area counties will have access to new features and functions and can create one user account for their whole family including multiple addresses that can cover your home, work, or school locations. Kennon says switching to the new platform allows residents to receive enhanced alerts via phone, text and email, and answer poll questions that will give emergency officials critical information during emergency situations.

Individuals who are signed up for alerts will receive reliable information about emergency and disaster preparedness, response, and recovery information; including tailored updates based on specific needs and geographic location. With more active weather patterns impacting the region, an emerging drought, history of major flood events, and the switchover date of July 1 approaching, individuals who want to stay informed and be alerted to potential threats should register for the new system.

Thursday evening, for instance, the Montgomery County Communications Center received reports of a tornado with debris seen in the area near Grant. Out of an abundance of caution, outdoor warning sirens were activated for the City of Grant while spotters were being dispatched. The information was sent out also, through the Montgomery County Alert Iowa system.

Those registering will be able to select the type of alerts they want to receive and how they are alerted and communicated with before, during, and after emergencies and disaster.