If this feature is important, be sure to check for its availability in whatever brand of SAME-capable receiver you look at. Many pager companies now offer alerting pagers that provide the latest weather information. Some NWR receivers have a connector on the back to control all sorts of remote control devices such as flashing lights, bed shakers or other attention-getting devices. Check with electronics stores, electronics catalogs or conduct an Internet search for more details. Pager companies can give you information on weather-related information products.
Several developments are under way.
First, the National Weather Service continues to work with local communities, businesses and non-profit organizations to install NOAA Weather Radio transmitters in areas of the nation not currently served by NWR broadcasts. The process is expected to significantly reduce delays in producing NWR broadcasts and should have a positive impact on getting earlier warnings out to the NWR listening public and to emergency managers and the broadcast media who monitor NWR reports. In addition, the NWS is beginning a program to build grass roots support for placing NOAA Weather Radio receivers in local schools and other public gathering places. Finally, the NWS has reached an agreement with King Features Syndicate to use nationally-syndicated comic strip character Mark Trail as the campaign symbol for educating the public about the National Weather Service's NOAA Weather Radio program. Mark Trail will appear on posters and in other educational materials to help raise public awareness levels about the benefits of owning a NOAA Weather Radio receiver equipped with an alarm tone and SAME-capability.