Today, smartphones are useful for almost everything, from organizing and completing work tasks to managing virtual assistants. They can also become a key tool for preparing for emergencies such as earthquakes. Luckily, Android devices have a seismic alert system designed to warn users of earthquakes before they feel them. This Google-developed tool can save lives by giving you vital seconds to get to safety. We explain below. how to activate seismic alert on android mobile phone and what to do to receive these notifications in the event of an earthquake.
How does Seismic Alert work on Android?
Google’s Seismic Alerts system is designed to alert users that they may feel an earthquake, providing important notifications and detailed information. You can receive two types of alerts:
Minor hazard warning
This alert is designed to alert you to weak or light shaking, typically 3 to 4 degrees on the Mercalli scale, and to warn you in advance of possible stronger shaking. When the alert appears on your screen, you can get more information by tapping the notification.
This type of alert takes into account your mobile phone’s volume and notification settings, meaning it won’t be interrupted if your device is on silent or at low volume.
Alert to take action
This alert indicates that moderate to extreme seismic movements of 5 or higher on the Mercalli scale are expected and urges you to take immediate action to protect yourself.
In this case, the alert will be issued regardless of your device’s sound settings. The system will play a loud sound to confirm that you have received the warning. In addition to the notification, Google will offer a map with an estimate of the earthquake’s location and strength, as well as safety information, including five steps to help protect yourself during an earthquake.
How to Activate Seismic Alert on Your Android
To ensure that you receive seismic alerts on your Android device, you need to enable the system and make sure that Google has access to certain permissions, such as location. Below, we will show you two ways to activate seismic alerts on your mobile phone.
Activate the notification from the system and emergency menu.
This method is the most common, but it may vary depending on the make and model of your mobile phone. If you have access to the option System and emergency In your device settings, follow these steps:
Step 1: opens the menu Settings your Android device.
Step 2: within Settingsfind and select an option System and emergency.
Step 3– Scroll down until you find the option Earthquake Alerts in the menu.
Step 4– Activate the option to receive seismic alerts by turning on the switch. Earthquake AlertsGoogle may ask for access to your location and other permissions; be sure to allow them, as this is how the system will determine whether you are near seismic activity and send you an appropriate alert.
Activate notification in location settings.
On some Android devices, the option System and emergency may not be available, but you can still enable seismic alerts in your location settings. Follow these steps:
Step 1: enter menu Settings from your mobile phone.
Step 2: in the menu, find and select the option Location.
Step 3– In the location submenu, select Location services.
Step 4: In this list you should find the option Earthquake Alerts. Select it to continue.
Step 5: within the option Earthquake AlertsActivate the function of receiving notifications about seismic alarms by sliding the switch.
Why doesn’t the seismic alarm work?
It is possible that even if an earthquake has occurred, you will not receive an alert on your mobile phone. Some common reasons for this include:
Permissions not granted
If Google doesn’t have access to your mobile phone’s location, it won’t be able to send you alerts. Make sure location permissions are enabled for earthquake alerts.
Missing sensors
Android devices without an accelerometer cannot detect earthquake motion or work with Google’s earthquake detection network. This sensor is required for the system to recognize earthquakes.
Additional tips
Enabling seismic alerts on your Android is a simple measure that can help in an emergency. Make sure to follow these steps and save the necessary permissions so that Google can notify you in advance and help ensure your safety.
However, remember that while Google’s seismic alert system can be a great help, it is not infallible. Make sure you always have an emergency plan so you know what to do if an earthquake occurs. If you live in a seismic zone, you can also supplement Google’s alert with additional seismic monitoring apps.
Source: Digital Trends
