Wireless Emergency Alert Confusion in Western Clinton County

Earlier today, some residents in the Clarksville and Blanchester areas of western Clinton County reported receiving an unexpected Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) on their mobile phones.

The first alert appeared with the message: “EMERGENCY ALERT – Secure doors and windows.” No location or additional information was included, leading to confusion and a flurry of calls to local agencies.

A short time later, a follow-up alert was sent stating: “Last message is for Deerfield Township only, please do NOT call 911!”

At this time, it is believed the alerts were inadvertently issued by Warren County for an incident that did not meet the criteria for a WEA broadcast. While the incident itself appears to have been contained and limited to Deerfield Township (Warren County), the alert reached portions of western Clinton County due to the nature of how Wireless Emergency Alerts broadcast based on cell tower coverage, not county lines.

Key Points to Know:

• There are no active alerts for Clinton County at this time.

• Clinton County Emergency Management uses Clinton County Emergency Alerts (CCEA) for opt-in text notifications, which are separate from Wireless Emergency Alerts sent directly to mobile devices.

• Residents are encouraged not to call 911 for clarification unless there is an immediate emergency or personal safety concern.

We will share any additional relevant information as it becomes available.

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