SMS notification

The Longyearbyen local government can send out alerts to the population via text message in the event of an emergency.

In situations where there may be a danger to life, health, or property, and there is a need to alert many people quickly, the Longyearbyen local government can use location-based SMS alerts. This is a web-based communication tool that allows municipalities and other government agencies to send SMS messages to the entire population in a defined area.

The alerts will be sent via base stations to everyone in a specific geographical area. The system cannot distinguish between permanent residents, visitors, children, or adults. Nor can we subsequently retrieve personal information about who has received the SMS alerts.

The system is to be used exclusively in situations where life, health, or property is threatened. When an incident occurs, the crisis management team at Longyearbyen Local Council and the Governor of Svalbard will assess whether SMS alerts should be used to inform the population.

The alert system cannot be used (lent out) for other purposes, even if it would be practical to alert everyone in the town at the same time. It can also only be used for incidents within the Longyearbyen local government's area plan.

Deviations

Through use and exercises, we have learned that SMS alerts do not reach all switched-on phones in an area. According to the supplier, this may be due to several factors, including settings at certain operators. It may therefore be a good idea to pass on information to family and friends in case someone has not received the message.

The Longyearbyen local government will always provide information through our regular information channels in parallel with the sending of SMS alerts.

Testing

The Longyearbyen Local Council normally tests the SMS alert system twice a year, in conjunction with the national alert exercises in January and June.