Frequently Asked Questions about REVERSE 911

Following are answers to frequently asked questions about REVERSE 911®.

What is REVERSE 911®?
REVERSE 911® is a communications tool that uses a patented combination of database and GIS mapping technologies to deliver emergency notifications to the community via phone numbers included in the system.

Using REVERSE 911®, city officials can quickly target a precise geographic area of the city or the city as a whole and potentially reach thousands of phone numbers each hour. For example, a targeted neighborhood may be canvassed by REVERSE 911® in less than an hour.

How do I add my phone number to the REVERSE 911 database?
You may register one or more phone number, including cell phones, in one of two ways.

Those without internet access may sign up by calling the City of Snoqualmie Emergency Operations Center at 425-888-5911. Callers should leave contact information including name, phone number, and property address.

Why do we need REVERSE 911®?
The City of Snoqualmie is prone to natural disasters such as floods and windstorms. Quick and reliable dissemination of information is crucial to the successful mitigation of incidents and the safety of citizens. This need was evident during the recent floods of November 2008 and January 2009, as well as the December 2008 winter storm. Timely and reliable information needed to be delivered to the community as quickly as possible. The communication could not wait for mail delivery. Our only resource was for city staff and volunteers to go door-to-door with flyers until all residents could be reached.

What will REVERSE 911® be used for?
The community notification system will be used to transmit emergency information as deemed necessary by city officials. Examples of reasons for notification are:

Disaster Recovery Instructions
Boil Water Notices
Evacuations
Emergency Shelter
Requests for Community Assistance
Major Road Closures
Hazardous Material Spills

Is the REVERSE 911® system that is used in Snoqualmie the same as the system used in other King County cities, such as Bellevue?
Yes and no. Each city owns and operates its own version of a REVERSE 911® system. There are many different types and brands of GIS and internet-based notification systems available. We use the same brand of REVERSE 911® software as Bellevue and many other cities.

The main difference is that we own and manage the database; it is exclusive to Snoqualmie. The phone numbers in the Snoqualmie database were initially provided by King County 911 dispatch. We keep our database current by cross reference with the City of Snoqualmie utility billing software and Snoqualmie’s annual REVERSE 911® tests.

All phone numbers are confidential and will be used in case of regional emergency only by the City of Snoqualmie Emergency Management Department or by the King County 911 emergency dispatch.

What if the phone lines in my neighborhood are down and REVERSE 911® cannot call me?
This is a limitation of the REVERSE 911® system. The City of Snoqualmie owns and operates an AM radio broadcast system jointly with the City of North Bend. The station, heard locally at 1650 AM, can serve as a back-up communications channel for the REVERSE 911® system. It is important that your disaster preparedness kit include a battery-operated radio as another means to receive important and updated emergency information. (During times of non-emergency, the local Snoqualmie radio station 1650 AM will broadcast community and tourist information as well as safety tips.)

Will I be guaranteed to receive a call when a disaster occurs?
No. Many situations affect the delivery of a phone message. Examples include: phone lines down, power outage, hang up believing it is a telemarketer, changing a phone number without notifying the City Emergency Management Department, not answering a call-waiting beep, not checking voicemail, overloaded phone circuits, or any other possible scenario outside the city’s control.

Who should I call if I have more questions about REVERSE 911®?
Please contact the City of Snoqualmie Emergency Operation Center (at the Fire Department) during regular business hours at 425-888-1551. In the event of a disaster, this phone line is open after hours on an as-needed basis.

How do I get more information about disaster preparedness for my home and family?
Valuable information about disaster preparedness is posted in the Emergency Management Department section of the city website at www.cityofsnoqualmie.org.

Are there training or volunteer opportunities for helping our community during times of disaster?
Yes. When disaster hits, our resources often become overwhelmed and all emergent issues must be prioritized. It may take awhile before first responders can reach everyone that needs assistance. Therefore, the City of Snoqualmie offers Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to teach interested individuals how to take care of their own immediate needs and those of their neighbors. There is also an amateur radio operators group and training to help at an emergency shelter if people are evacuated from their homes.

For more information about emergency volunteer and training opportunities, please visit the Emergency Management Department section of the city website or call 425-888-5911.

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