In an emergency, seconds matter. Whether it’s a fast-moving wildfire, a dangerous winter storm, or a gas leak that shuts down a neighborhood, timely information can make all the difference. That’s why Flathead County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) has rolled out a powerful new tool to help keep our residents, workers, and visitors informed and safe: the Genasys Emergency Alert System—and it’s absolutely free.
Genasys replaces our previous alert system and brings with it a host of upgrades that make it faster, more flexible, and easier to use. From the moment OES pushes an alert, it can now reach your email, text messages, phone calls, and even a mobile app—all at once. Real-time alerts can be tailored to the locations you care about, whether that’s your home, workplace, your cabin in the North Fork, or your daughter’s apartment in Columbia Falls.
Signing up is simple. Just visit the Office of Emergency Services page at www.flatheadcounty.gov and follow the link to register. You can create a custom profile that includes multiple addresses, phone numbers, and emails to ensure alerts reach you however—and wherever—you need them.
The system is designed for everyone with a connection to Flathead County. Whether you live here year-round, own a second property, work in the valley, or have loved ones nearby, Genasys lets you stay informed. Even visitors can sign up for short-term alerts while they’re in the area.
Users can choose to receive general alerts, emergency notifications, or both. Alerts may include updates on flooding, wildfire conditions, winter storms, red flag warnings, power outages, and other high-risk incidents that impact public safety. It’s also an essential tool for fast-changing events—when every minute counts.
Want even more coverage? Download the Genasys Protect App from the Apple App Store or Google Play. With mobile push notifications, the app ensures you’ll receive urgent updates even when cell service is spotty or you're on the go.
In today’s unpredictable world, preparedness is key—and that starts with being informed. Flathead County’s new Genasys alert system is a major step forward in public safety, and we encourage every resident, worker, and visitor to take a few minutes and sign up.
Because when it comes to emergencies, knowing sooner can mean staying safer.