Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register?

Bay County Residents can register by going to: https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=mibaycounty and enter the registration information that is requested for your household. You will receive a text or phone call confirming that you have opted into the alert system to receive emergency notifications.

Can I register via text?

No. The new system is able to gather much more voluntary data than the old BAY Alerts system.This data will be used to better serve you during an emergency. Due to the information that is possible to gather, the only way to sign up for the new system is to fill out the registration form on the website.

 

The website refers to Smart911. Am I in the right place?

Yes. The new BAYAlerts system is provided by RAVE Mobile Safety, the makers of the Smart911 system. This system is what powers BAYAlerts. The BAY Alerts system is not using all of the Smart911 options at this time. It will currently use the Emergency Notification and the Emergency Management pieces of the system.

 

How will I know when a text or phone call is from BAY Alerts?

Your BAY Alerts text messages will come to you from either 67283 or 226787, and phone calls will come from (989) 895-2081. Program these numbers as “BAY Alerts” in your phone. That way, you will know when a message is from BAY Alerts.

 

Does BAY Alerts cost anything to use?

There is no cost for the BAY Alerts service;however, your cell phone carrier might charge you to receive text messages and phone calls, so please check your plan.

 

What type of alerts will I receive?

You will receive emergency alerts such as tornado warnings, shelter-in-place and evacuation requests. If you so choose,you may also receive notifications regarding:

• Traffic Alerts and Road Closures
• Health Department Alerts
• Bay Metro Transportation Messages
• Preparedness Tips
• Saginaw River Alerts

and other Bay County Facility Notifications

 

You will be given the option to choose these notifications, and the methods you would like to receive them in, during the registration process.

 

Will all cell phone carriers deliver BAYAlerts messages?

Yes.

Will I receive ads or SPAM on my phone or email?

No.

I don’t use text messages. Can I receive BAYAlerts by email or landline telephone?

Yes.

Can I unsubscribe from BAY Alerts?

Yes, text the word “STOP” to 67283 or 226787 from the phone number you registered with.You may also log in to the system and request to stop receiving messages.

Who do I contact if I have any further questions?
Bay County Emergency Management (989) 895-4112 or [email protected]