Queenslanders are being urged to update their phone settings to ‘favourite’ the Emergency Alert (EA) phone number to stay informed during an emergency or disaster.
Emergency Alert is the national telephone-based warning system used to send voice messages to landlines and text messages to mobile phones to warn people of emergencies, including dangerous weather with potentially severe impacts.
Mackay Whitsunday District Superintendent Dean Cavanagh emphasised the importance of the system.
"If you're in a certain area that might be impacted by weather events or any emergency, you will automatically receive this message."
He noted that alerts are geo-targeted, ensuring they reach those who need them most.
An Emergency Alert is just one way for authorities to warn communities of a dangerous situation in the area and is only issued when necessary. While they are not sent for every circumstance, the message will contain important, potentially life-saving directions that require immediate action.
"It is really important for us to raise awareness in relation to the emergency alert messaging system," Superintendent Cavanagh said, urging residents to be proactive in ensuring they receive warnings.
You do not need to register to receive an Emergency Alert, which is sent from caller ID number +61 444 444 444. QPS have confirmed that messages from this number are not a scam - they are official phone warnings as part of a national geo-targeting emergency alert system.
Residents are encouraged to check that the number is not blocked on their device and to add it to their ‘favourites’ to avoid missing critical alerts.
Superintendent Cavanagh reassured the public that the alerts will reach them regardless of phone settings, saying, "Even if your phone is on 'Do Not Disturb,' it will go through."
Although there is currently no immediate concern, he reminded Queenslanders to always stay prepared.
"Be prepared - that's all."
He emphasised that weather can often be unpredictable, making it crucial for locals to be disaster-ready at all times.
"Our season never finishes for disasters; we're always prepared, and we're always exercising safety," he said.
For those receiving an Emergency Alert, he advised, "If you received that warning system, it means that you're in a certain area we've targeted, so please hear that message and make sure that number is saved."
To stay informed, residents can visit the Disaster Management website for the latest Emergency Alert details and access local government disaster dashboards.
Queenslanders are urged to ‘favourite’ the Emergency Alert number to ensure they receive critical warnings, with Superintendent Dean Cavanagh stressing the importance of staying prepared for unpredictable weather and emergencies. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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