Emergency Preparedness Notification System (EPNS)

EPNS is the Emergency Preparedness Network System. The system is designed to rapidly notify an affected area of an emergency by sending a prerecorded message through the telephone system.

• Don't call 9-1-1 after you receive an alert message unless the message directs you to do so. This will keep 9-1-1 open for other emergencies.
• You may repeat the message by following the prompts given.
• The system generates your phone number only, not your name, so your privacy is not compromised.
• Don't hang up in the middle of the message. The entire message must be left for the system to notify us that it was received.
• If you have a telephone zapper used to block out telemarketers, or if your phone is blocked to unknown callers, the EPNS message will not go through.

EPNS uses the 9-1-1 database to extract phone numbers determined by the circle or area drawn on the EPNS map. EPNS launches a prerecorded message to those telephone numbers in that specified area.

Cell phones and internet phones are not automatically part of the 9-1-1 database. In order for you to receive a notification on your cellular or internet phone, you must register your phone number and associate it with your address. This can be done by clicking here.

Several telephone carriers are used to send the message so the caller ID may vary. Primarily it will show Priority Alert or Alert Call.

The system is designed to leave a message on voice mail or an answering machine.

The system has TTY capability for the hearing impaired. There is TTY detection equipment that will bypass the voice-recorded portion when a TTY or TDD is detected. All agencies will use the TTY portion of the system.

The system is designed to call back if the line is busy or if there is no answer. The system will wait three minutes before a second callback is made. If the line is still busy or is not answered, the system will wait an additional three minutes before attempting a final call.

Qwest is the custodian of the 9-1-1 database and is required to keep the 9-1-1 database current when a service order is received for a new phone or if a phone is moved to a different location. This applies to all telephone providers that offer local service. All local land line telephone providers are required to put the changes and additions into the 9-1-1 database. This does not apply to individuals who have registered their cellular or internet phones in the EPNS system. Cellular and internet phone users must update thier information here.

Each notification call will be different. The primary agency handling the emergency will make the recording you will hear. Depending on the event, the call may also be a computer generated voice. It is important to follow the instructions on the recording.

If you have an unlisted or unpublished number, don't worry. Because we extract information from 9-1-1, your number is included in our database.

No, 9-1-1 should only be called when you have an emergency. The emergency notification recording will give you instructions to follow.