This week federal regulators approved a plan that would allow text messaging to serve as a tool for alerting citizens nationwide to emergency situations. The new plan is a result of a 2006 law requiring federal emergency response teams to update their alert systems.

According to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, ""The ability to deliver accurate and timely warnings and alerts through cell phones and other mobile services is an important next step in our efforts to help ensure that the American public has the information they need to take action to protect themselves and their families prior to, and during, disasters and other emergencies,."

While inclusion in the system is voluntary for wireless phone providers, most are receptive to the plan.