FEMA, in collaboration with the FCC, has introduced a new event code within the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS): the Missing and Endangered Persons (MEP) code. This important addition allows state, local, tribal, and territorial authorities to send emergency alerts over television, radio, and cell phones when someone goes missing and does not meet the criteria for an AMBER Alert.
Every year, more than 180,000 people go missing who are not eligible for AMBER Alerts. The MEP code helps close this gap by enabling faster, more coordinated responses from law enforcement, broadcasters, and the public. This includes cases involving adults, children outside AMBER Alert criteria, and situations that particularly impact Tribal communities, where American Indians and Alaska Natives face disproportionate risks of violence and disappearance.
How Hyper-Reach Supports MEP Alerts
Hyper-Reach fully supports the new MEP event code through IPAWS, ensuring our customers can use this critical tool as part of their emergency communication strategy. In fact, we’ve already received questions from customers about MEP, and we’ve incorporated it into our services to make sure your agency can act quickly when every second counts.
Next Steps for Agencies
- Update your IPAWS User Portal permissions to enable MEP for WEA and EAS alerts.
- Coordinate with State Emergency Communications Committees for usage guidelines.
- Work with broadcasters to confirm their systems are configured to relay the new code.
- Create internal templates for faster, more consistent messaging.
The new MEP event code is a powerful step toward saving lives and strengthening public safety communications. Hyper-Reach stands ready to help your agency make full use of this new capability.
For more on the MEP code, see FEMA’s Fact Sheet.
