Best Practices for Emergency SMS Text Messaging

By Dr. Ben Brewer, DM-HLS, MSIT, Director of Product Management, Alertus Technologies

An SMS notification appears on a mobile phone held by an individual.

In critical situations, rapidly disseminating information via emergency notification systems is crucial. It's a lifeline for conveying timely alerts and necessary guidance to affected individuals. Among the various communication methods available, Short Message Service (SMS) text messaging stands out as a particularly effective solution for emergency alerts due to its widespread accessibility, speed of delivery, and high rate of message reception. In times when other conventional communication networks may be compromised or experience overload, SMS offers a resilient and direct channel for reaching individuals with potentially life-saving instructions.

The Power of SMS in Emergencies

The inherent advantages of utilizing SMS for emergency notification lie in its broad compatibility across a diverse range of mobile devices, including basic cellular phones. Unlike applications that require internet connectivity or voice communications, SMS relies on the cellular network's signaling infrastructure, often maintaining functionality even when networks are under duress. The near-instantaneous delivery of text messages facilitates the swift distribution of crucial information, enabling individuals to take prompt action. However, the concise nature of SMS necessitates brevity to ensure that essential information is conveyed efficiently.

Crafting Effective Emergency SMS Alerts

The 160-character limitation inherent in standard SMS requires careful consideration in the development of effective emergency alerts. Here are some best practices to follow:

  • Clarity and Conciseness: SMS messages should be clear, concise, and focused on necessary information and actions.

  • Prioritize Key Information: Messages should prioritize the emergency nature and recommended action (e.g., evacuate, shelter) using straightforward language and avoiding jargon.

  • Essential Details Only: Taking care to include only essential details is vital to maximizing comprehension under stressful conditions.

  • Unique Identifier: Including a unique identifier can help prevent confusion and verify authenticity.

  • Supplement with More Information: While brief, providing a link or phone number for more information can supplement the SMS.

  • Regular Review and Refinement: Periodically reviewing and refining your emergency alert SMS templates based on potential scenarios and stakeholder feedback are essential steps in ensuring the effectiveness of your organization’s emergency notification program.

By following these best practices, organizations can leverage the power of SMS to effectively communicate during emergencies, ensuring that critical information reaches those who need it most, quickly and reliably.

Kara Stamets