Thousands instantly warned of Amber Alert on cell phones - WLOX.com - The News for South Mississippi

A 9-year-old Fairfield boy was found safe early Sunday morning after several hours of tense searching and the issuance of an Amber Alert.

Thousands of people were instantly warned about the Amber Alert in the immediate and surrounding areas, including North Alabama, once it was issued around 11:30 p.m. Saturday.

If you were one of them and wondered why, it is because your cell phone is Wireless Emergency Alert-capable.

As of January 2013, if you have a WEA-enabled phone, you are automatically enrolled for three alerts:

Those issued by the President of the United States;Imminent threats to safety or life, e.g., severe weather warnings;Amber Alerts

According to the Federal Communications Commission, participating cellular providers may allow subscribers to block all but Presidential alerts.

For questions or concerns regarding Amber Alerts on your phone, you are asked to contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, who manages alert distribution. Their number is 1-800-THE-LOST (843-5678). 

You can also visit their website to learn more.

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