Residents of Reno, Sparks, and unincorporated Washoe County have received or will soon receive a notice in their sewer bills regarding Smart911, the region’s emergency alert system. The notice informs customers that they have been automatically enrolled in Smart911 using the contact information associated with their sewer accounts.
Smart911 delivers geographically targeted emergency alerts, such as evacuation orders or shelter-in-place notices, through cell phone, landline, or email, depending on the contact method linked to each account. These alerts differ from the broader emergency messages broadcast on television and radio, which often cover entire regions.
Residents may opt out of the system by visiting the Washoe County Emergency Management Alerts & Warnings website. Residents can add additional contact details, or provide information that may assist first responders, such as a medical condition or limited mobility by signing up for a Smart 911 account at the same website.
“There is no single method to reach every resident, but we know that most are connected to municipal sewer systems and regularly receive correspondence from the City of Reno, City of Sparks, or Washoe County,” Emergency Manager Kelly Echeverria said. “This enrollment method allowed us to reach the greatest number of people possible. Those who rely on private wells or do not receive sewer bills should visit our website to sign up for alerts.”
What’s the difference between Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS)?
Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are short, text-like messages sent to mobile devices in specific geographic areas. WEA allows Washoe County Emergency Management to send alerts—such as those for Incline Village or other neighborhoods—only to people in affected areas. Learn more about WEA here.
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public warning system that uses radio and television broadcasters, cable providers, satellite radio and TV, and wireline video services to deliver alerts. EAS participants voluntarily provide local emergency messages and are required to carry presidential messages during national emergencies. Learn more about EAS here.
Need help?
For questions about your sewer account, please contact your provider directly.
To manage your emergency alert preferences—including enrollment, contact information updates, or opting out—visit:
🔗 https://washoecounty.gov/em/regional-alerts/index.php
