The Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS) is FEMA's national system for alerting that provides an integrated, interoperable environment for sending public safety and emergency communications under all conditions. The IPAWS system is available to jurisdictions at all levels of government for secure delivery of emergency messages through Wireless Emergency Alerts, the Emergency Alert System, NOAA Weather Radio and through IoT connected downstream devices.

In addition to providing the platform for alerting, the IPAWS program serves as both an authoritative guidance provider and training and support center. There are nearly 1,800 IPAWS Alerting Authorities in America who send tens of thousands of IPAWS alerts each month, including AMBER, extreme weather, evacuation orders, curfew in effect, shelter in place, and more.

When used correctly, there is no other tool available that can compare to the power and potency of those found in IPAWS.

Through real-world examples, this presentation will identify:
1. How IPAWS is used to effectively inform the public and build community resilience.
2. How to ensure EOC personnel can alert under any conditions by having technology, policies, procedures, and working relationships in place.
3. Improvements in technology and the updates to the program that keep IPAWS on the leading edge of change.