Via cityofchicago.org

The City unveiled its new "Notify Chicago" initiative, an enhancement to the current "reverse 911" program that will now give the city the ability to provide anyone in the Master Street Address Guide who signs up for the program with emergency alerts on their cell phones and handheld computers. 

"Notify Chicago" is the latest addition to "Alert Chicago" - the city's proactive initiative for educating and informing communities on how to protect themselves and their families from harm. It is managed by the city's Office of Emergency Management and Communications. 

"Because federal regulations prohibit mass notifications to wireless users, and because we didn't have this software, we were limited in communicating with many people. Now, if residents register for "Notify Chicago" - and that is required by federal rules - we'll be able to send pro-active alerts to them on everything from traffic to weather emergencies to hazardous materials situations," Mayor Daley said.

To sign up to receive "Notify Chicago" alert messages, residents need to log onto www.notifychicago.org and create a personal account.

Residents who do not have access to the Internet can sign up at one of Chicago's Public Libraries. All you need is a library card.

Residents can register up to three telephone numbers, including home, work and a cell phone, as well as an email address. They can choose from different types of notifications to receive, such as life safety, fire, weather, disasters and accidents involving utilities or roadways.

For more information on preparing for emergency situations visit www.alertchicago.org and click on the "Notify Chicago" link.