Terms & Conditions
Emergency Management Group – WA
Effective date: 09/03/2025
Last updated: 09/03/2025
1) Acceptance of Terms
By accessing or using EMG‑WA websites, pages, portals, social media, or subscribing to/using EMG‑WA SMS text messaging (collectively, the “Services”), you agree to these Terms & Conditions and to our Privacy Notice and any program‑specific notices. If you do not agree, do not use the Services.
2) Purpose & Important Safety Notice
EMG‑WA provides information intended to support community preparedness, public safety, and emergency management.
Not a 24/7 monitoring channel. Not for reporting emergencies. In an emergency or life‑threatening situation, call 9‑1‑1 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
Information may change rapidly during incidents. EMG‑WA does not guarantee timeliness, completeness, or accuracy, and the Services are not a substitute for official alerts such as Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), NOAA Weather Radio, or directions from public safety authorities.
3) Eligibility & Accounts
The Services are intended for individuals 18 years and older. If you are under 18, do not use the Services.
You are responsible for keeping your contact information (including your mobile number) accurate and current.
If accounts or passwords are used, you are responsible for safeguarding your credentials and for all activities under your account.
4) SMS/Text Messaging Program
Program Name: “EMG‑WA Alerts”
Long Code: +1 253-666-8340
Message Frequency: Message frequency varies; you may receive multiple messages during active incidents.
Cost: Message & data rates may apply.
Opt‑In:
You agree to receive SMS messages from EMG‑WA when you subscribe via eoc@emgwa.org, text a keyword (e.g., JOIN) to 253-666-8340, or otherwise provide written/electronic consent consistent with applicable law.
Opt‑Out:
Text STOP to 253-666-8340 to cancel. After you send STOP, you may receive one final message confirming your opt‑out.
You can also unsubscribe via eoc@emgwa.org or by contacting phone 253-666-8340.
Help:
Text HELP to 253-666-8340 for technical help, or contact eoc@emgwa.org.
Delivery & Carrier Disclaimer:
Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. Delivery may depend on your carrier coverage, device, and network status.
Program Changes/Suspension:
EMG‑WA may modify, suspend, or discontinue the SMS program at any time, with or without notice.
5) Acceptable Use
You agree not to:
– Interfere with or disrupt the Services, or attempt to bypass security controls.
– Use the Services to transmit unlawful, harassing, defamatory, harmful, misleading, or fraudulent content; malware; or spam.
– Impersonate any person or entity or misrepresent your affiliation.
– Collect or harvest personal data from other users without consent.
– Use the Services in a manner that violates applicable law or third‑party rights.
EMG‑WA may block or terminate access for violations, suspected abuse, or to protect public safety.
6) Information Accuracy & Availability
During emergencies, information can change quickly. No guarantee is made that the Services will be uninterrupted, error‑free, up‑to‑date, or compatible with all devices or carriers.
Do not rely solely on EMG‑WA Services for critical decision‑making. Always follow instructions from public safety officials and maintain multiple alerting methods.
7) Public Records & Retention (Washington)
Communications with EMG‑WA, including via the website, contact forms, email, or SMS, may be public records subject to disclosure under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56).
EMG‑WA may retain records in accordance with applicable laws and retention schedules. Do not send confidential, medical, financial, or other sensitive information unless specifically requested through secure channels.
8) Privacy Notice
1. Information We Collect
– Personal Information: Name, email, phone number, and any details you provide voluntarily.
– SMS Data: Mobile number, message content, time/date of messages, and opt-in/opt-out status.
– Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device identifiers, and usage analytics.
2. How We Use Your Information
– To deliver alerts, updates, and emergency notifications.
– To improve service reliability and user experience.
– To comply with legal obligations, including Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56).
3. Sharing of Information
– With service providers (e.g., SMS gateways) under confidentiality agreements.
– With government and emergency response partners when necessary for public safety.
– As required by law, including public records requests.
4. Data Retention
We retain information in accordance with Washington State records retention schedules.
5. Your Choices
– You may opt out of SMS alerts at any time by replying STOP.
– You may request access to or correction of your personal information by contacting us at eoc@emgwa.org.
6. Security
We use reasonable safeguards to protect your data, but no system is completely secure.
7. Public Records Notice
Communications with EMG‑WA, including SMS and web submissions, may be subject to disclosure under Washington law.
8. Contact
For privacy questions or requests, contact:
Email: privacy@emgwa.org
Phone: 253-666-8340