Broadcasting cell warnings set as standard in Dusseldorf
Germany's Cell Broadcast System Enhances Emergency Warning System
Germany's emergency warning system has been strengthened with the implementation of the Cell Broadcast system. This innovative technology provides a direct, location-targeted emergency alert to all cell phones logged into a specific radio cell, ensuring rapid and widespread dissemination of warnings even without apps or internet access.
How Cell Broadcast Works
Messages are broadcast via mobile network cells to all devices connected to that cell simultaneously. These messages pop up directly on cell phones as text alerts, which can trigger loud sounds or vibrations to gain immediate attention. The system works even on phones without internet or specific warning apps, increasing its reach to more people.
Since February 2023, Cell Broadcast has been available nationwide in Germany as part of the Modular Warning System (MoWaS), which coordinates multiple warning technologies. Currently, about half of all mobile devices in Germany can receive a warning via Cell Broadcast. No additional installation of an app, such as NINA, is required for the Cell Broadcast system.
Cell Broadcast on Warning Days
On nationwide warning days, such as the annual test on the second Thursday of September, Cell Broadcast messages are sent as tests to evaluate the effectiveness of the alert system. The test alert typically displays phrases such as “Emergency alert. Test alert, nationwide warning day” and clarifies that there is "No danger," aiming to familiarize citizens with the alert format and increase alert acceptance.
Alongside Cell Broadcast, other warning channels (radio, television, warning apps like NINA, and digital displays) are triggered simultaneously to maximize public awareness. These warning days help educate the public on how to respond to real emergencies and where to find further information.
Cell Broadcast in Emergency Situations
The Cell Broadcast system is a warning channel that allows authorities to send messages to mobile devices within a specific area of the mobile network. Under warning level 1, events such as chemical accidents with the release of toxic substances, flood waves/flooding, or nuclear accidents are potential triggers. These events can lead to damage to infrastructure and property, which can then become a danger to life, making normal daily life impossible.
In such situations, the Cell Broadcast warning comes as a text message directly to compatible phones, providing immediate information about the emergency and instructions for safety measures. Fire chief David von der Lieth stated that the "Cell Broadcast" system will be used to inform people of immediate dangers to many lives.
The Future of Cell Broadcast
The next nationwide warning day will take place on March 9, 2023. During this event, Cell Broadcast will be used and further optimized. The BBK provides information about the Cell Broadcast system on its website, where a list of all compatible devices can be found. The "Cell Broadcast" system complements the modular warning system (MoWaS), which also includes the NINA warning app and city sirens.
In summary, Cell Broadcast is a vital component of Germany’s multi-channel emergency warning system, offering fast, reliable, and widespread emergency notification directly to mobile phones based on their geographical location. Its use during warning days tests readiness and improves public responsiveness to actual emergencies.
Technology plays a significant role in the general-news conversation surrounding emergency warning systems, as demonstrated by Germany's embrace of the Cell Broadcast system. This innovative technology, part of the Modular Warning System (MoWaS), enables direct, location-targeted emergency alerts to cell phones, reaching people without internet or specific warning apps.
