Automatic Mobile Emergency Alerts [Free Startup Idea]

<p><pre><code> We need a system to push emergency alerts directly to mobile phones based on their location without the need for the person to opt-in. </code></pre> I don't understand why this can't be opt-in. Granted, emergency alerts are something I would want to receive, but I think it's something that should be provided as an opt-in service, either by downloading an app or signing up with your cell carrier. My fear is that with a helpless, captive audience, the scope of "emergency" would slowly creep outward until you're spammed multiple times a day about the great deals at the Costco in your area. Also, if the service weren't opt-in, it would prevent competition because users would not be able to choose which emergency notification service they want to use.

The Finnish Government is preparing just this kind of a system. Launch is expected at earliest in 2011.<p>Planning was started after the 2004 Asian tsunami. In 2007 the upfront costs of an emergency alert system were estimated at 1,5 to 6 million euros. At that point the Ministry of the Interior decided to mothball the project.<p>This year we've had record breaking storm damages. It's likely that development of such system will once again be a priority.<p>In Finland, mobile emergency alert system is seen as an alternative to current national emergency broadcasts (tv, radio - similar to EAS). Currently the system is very stupid - single bear sightings are pushed nationwide in every broadcast media. It's mostly a matter of too lax regulation on the use of emergency broadcasts, but ultimately a new, more localized delivery method would be needed. This would mean SMS emergency alerts pushed through local cell towers.<p>For further info on the Finnish project: Google "hätätekstiviesti" and Google Translate.

A sadly related, but very informative is the Virginia Tech shooting report: <a href="http://www.vtreviewpanel.org/report/index.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.vtreviewpanel.org/report/index.html</a>. I did a bit of work (mostly code audit) of an emergency alert system at a University and it was one of the most rewarding work experiences I've ever had. Trouble with these systems is that at least where I worked, they were used to notify people of snow closings, etc., which made some people very angry: "why are you sending me so many e-mails, text messages, etc.?"

This is very well thought out and presented. Even though the internet hasn't reached everyone in the world, cell phones certainly are. I could see this being picked up by someone outside of the US where it hits a little closer to home<p>I have actually talked to folks who are working on something similar specific to africa I believe. And I've done a little thought in this area as well.<p>I think this approach for a business would make a lot of sense, and probably would get scooped up by one of the larger players in global mobile infrastructure pretty quickly. Hope your plan falls into the right hands, though I imagine the scope of such tech is a little beyond the typical YC-type startup?

In a previous life I worked at a company [1] doing things similar to this [2]. It was great to see it put to use in the 7/7 London bombings, and it certainly helped save a few lives over the years.<p>When I left a couple of years ago we were putting the finishing touches to a new version which was much improved, but it looks like that never launched.<p>[1] <a href="http://citysafe.org" rel="nofollow">http://citysafe.org</a><p>[2] <a href="http://communitysafe.gov.uk/" rel="nofollow">http://communitysafe.gov.uk/</a>

I consulted with the Department of Homeland Security about developing a system almost identical to this in 2005-6. It WAS eventually developed. I could give lots of valuable insight. Shoot me a message if you are interested.

Very informative write-up. At Stormpulse we're already sending emails and are about to start sending SMS and phone calls via Twilio. I can vouch for the demand (it's high). Of course, folks still have to opt-in.

Alertia is a great idea! The biggest barrier in my opinion will be dealing with the governments of the 180+ countries than the technology!

Weather bug app does this but it's Opt in. First thing my parents want installed on their phone.<p>I use it b/c I rarely watch live tv or listen to the radio.<p>Not sure about the " a system to push emergency alerts directly to mobile phones based on their location without the need for the person to opt-in." Seems a little too big brother to me.