Staying Informed

Getting Information about Emergencies

Photo of a person looking at a smartphone

There are numerous ways for New Jersey residents to stay informed before, during and after emergencies.

The following items will describe how you can receive alerts and warnings from public safety officials.

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Use credible websites to get information about natural hazards and emergency preparedness. The NJOEM works closely with the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center regarding storm predictions and forecasts.

Social media and other advanced communications technologies are used by the EMS and by emergency managers statewide.

Be sure you have a phone charger to keep your phone charged if the power goes out.

If you have a cell phone or smart phone, you have lots of options for receiving up to date information about emergencies:

  • NIXLE - Subscribe to the NJ State Police (NJSP) on Nixle Connect
    Nixle Connect allows the NJ State Police and the NJOEM to send messages to the public by text/SMS, e-mail, and Internet posts. Register to receive messages by sending a text message with your zip code to 888777 (data rates may apply depending on your plan). You can also register on-line at www.nixle.com.
  • The National Weather Service can now send free weather warnings directly to your phone if a hazard is imminent in New Jersey. Check with your wireless carrier to see if your wireless phone is WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) enabled to receive these messages.

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from a station nearest your location. NOAA Weather Radios are typically inexpensive, easily available in stores and can usually be programmed for your specific area. NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards

  • Continue to monitor traditional media sources – TV, newspapers and radio – to stay informed of breaking news and continued coverage of emergency events.
  • Find out if your community has a “reverse 9-1-1” system or if you can opt-in for email updates from municipal officials.