How to activate earthquake notifications on my cell phone
When there's danger from earthquakes, tsunamis , or any other natural phenomenon, every second counts. Experts say staying informed and alert can save lives.
In this context, technology becomes an ally: Cell phones can send rapid alerts , either because they detect a possible earthquake or because authorities have issued an emergency warning. It's essential to verify that this feature is activated.
Google Play Services provides two types of services to address potential risks caused by weather events:
- Alerts: A few seconds before an earthquake occurs, Android can send an alarm so you can seek safety.
- Emergency Location: When you call or text an emergency number, this service can automatically send your location and other contextual information directly to emergency services.
The procedure for activating this feature is very simple. Photo: Shutterstock
Below is the step-by-step process for activating the alert on Android phones:
- Access settings: Open your phone's settings app.
- Find the location or security option:
Option 1: Search for "Earthquake Alert"
Option 2: Search for "Emergency Location Service."
- Find earthquake alerts: Within the location or security section, look for the option referring to earthquake alerts. It may appear as "Earthquake Alerts," "Earthquake Alerts," "Emergency Alerts," or similar.
- Activate alerts: Once you find the option, turn it on. You may be asked to confirm location permissions so the system can detect earthquakes near your area.
To activate alert features, you must allow location access. Photo: Unsplash
On iPhones, you can receive public safety, government, and emergency alerts. According to Apple Support, they're usually enabled by default. "When you receive a government alert, you hear a special sound that's similar to an alarm," the official website explains.
Here's how to activate the alert on iOS phones:
- Go to Settings and then Notifications.
- Scroll down the screen to the bottom.
- Under 'Government Alerts,' turn the alert type on or off as desired.
It's worth noting that government alerts can also be received on your Apple Watch if it's connected to your iPhone and is nearby, or if it's connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Clarin
