Residents across Texas to receive test emergency alerts as part of statewide safety drill

Fort Worth, Texas – Texas residents will soon notice a coordinated test of the state’s emergency alert system as officials prepare to send out test messages across multiple regions to ensure everything is working as expected.

The statewide test, led by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, is scheduled for Thursday, April 2. Alerts will be delivered between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., with Fort Worth expected to receive its test alert around 10 a.m. The alerts will be sent directly to mobile phones through the Wireless Emergency Alert system, a tool designed to quickly reach the public during urgent situations.

Officials made it clear that the alert is only a test. The message will clearly indicate that no emergency is taking place and that no action is required from residents. A typical message may say: “TEST of emergency alert system. No emergency. No action needed.”

Statewide test aims to strengthen emergency readiness

The purpose of the drill is to confirm that alert systems are functioning properly across Texas. By conducting this test, emergency officials will be able to evaluate how well the system performs, identify any gaps, and make improvements where needed. These efforts are part of a broader goal to ensure that the public can be reached quickly and clearly during real emergencies.

Residents should be aware that they may receive more than one alert, especially if they are traveling between cities during the testing window. Despite the alerts, outdoor warning sirens will not be activated as part of this exercise. Officials also noted that the test will not take place if severe weather or an actual emergency occurs at the same time.

In Fort Worth, the testing comes just one day after a regularly scheduled siren test set for Wednesday, April 1, at 1 p.m. That test is part of the city’s routine system checks and is separate from the statewide alert drill.

Residents encouraged to check phone settings

While no action is required when the test alert is received, officials are encouraging residents to take this opportunity to make sure their phones are properly set up to receive emergency alerts.

For iPhone users, this involves opening the Settings app, selecting Notifications, scrolling to the Government Alerts section, and confirming that Emergency Alerts, Test Alerts, and Public Safety Alerts are turned on. Android users can find similar options by navigating to Safety and Emergency settings or notification menus, then ensuring Wireless Emergency Alerts and test alert options are enabled.

Taking these steps can help ensure that important messages are not missed in the future.

New local alert system introduced in Fort Worth

Alongside the statewide test, Fort Worth is promoting its updated local alert system known as ReadyFW. This system replaces the previous CodeRed platform and is designed to deliver timely information through text messages, phone calls, and emails.

Residents who want to receive local alerts must register for ReadyFW, as previous registrations will not carry over automatically. The system also allows users to create a Smart911 profile, which can provide emergency responders with helpful information during critical situations.

Text alerts will come from the number 77295, and residents can manage their subscription by sending simple commands. Texting START will activate or resume alerts, while texting STOP will cancel them. For additional support, users can send INFO or HELP to the same number.

Officials emphasized that ReadyFW is designed to provide reliable and trusted information, helping residents stay informed during emergencies and other important events.

Focus on communication and public safety

The upcoming test highlights the importance of clear communication during emergencies. By running a coordinated statewide drill and promoting local alert systems, officials aim to improve how information is delivered to the public.

Even though the test may briefly interrupt daily routines, it serves as a critical step in making sure systems are ready when they are truly needed.