How do I apply to get equipment?
Fill out an application either online at www.mcdmaine.org or get one from MCD.  The application must include proof of disability (waived if a TEP client with proof on file) and proof of income (tax return form, Social Security stub/statement, pay stub, etc) Equipment will not be given out until application is complete. 

What equipment is available and is it free?
The equipment is free, reduced, or full cost dependant on the applicant's income.  Maximum cost for equipment is:

• 1-way pager $181
• Stationary NOAA Radio with amplification $129 + $107

Which pager has the best coverage for the state of Maine?
The one-way pager has the best coverage in the State. Visit www.nepaging.com/coverage.htm for a map.

What if there is no coverage in my area?
MCD staff will help determine which equipment is best for your needs.  Depending on where you live and work will help determine which equipment is right for you.

Can I get more than one piece of equipment?
One piece of equipment per person. 

Can anyone get emergency alert equipment?
This program (alerts and equipment) is set up for Deaf and HOH people who live in Maine only.

What alerts are available?
Emergency Alert System (EAS) notices.  (These are the same alerts that interrupt TV shows.) EAS alerts are the most serious emergency alerts and must be sent out Statewide to all counties. EAS alerts include:

• Tornado Warning
• Flash Flood Warning
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning
• Special Marine Warning
• Civil Emergency Message
• Child Abduction Emergency
• National Weather Service Alerts: The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, hydrologic, and climate forecasts and warnings for the United States, its territories, adjacent waters and ocean areas, for the protection of life.
• Department of Public Safety: The Department of Public Safety serves the people by protecting their lives, rights, and properties. This is accomplished through criminal justice, law enforcement, fire safety, emergency response services, and E-911.
• Department of Transportation: The Maine DOT is responsible for the State's highways and bridges, airports and aeronautics, ports and marine activity, including the State Ferry Service; railroads, public transportation, as well as bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
• Maine Turnpike Authority: The Authority's primary function is to operate and maintain a toll express highway serving Maine, and providing the link between the Maine Department of Transportation and the rest of the United States and Eastern Canada.
• Bureau of Health (will be added in the future) The Bureau of Health’s mission is to develop and deliver services to preserve, protect and promote the health and well-being of the citizens of Maine. Within the Department of Health and Human Services, the Bureau of Health has responsibility for public health issues and concerns.
• Amber Alert The Amber Alert is an important missing child response program that utilizes the resources of law enforcement and media to notify the public when children are kidnapped.

Why am I not getting alerts?
MCD Staff ealert@mcdmaine.org will check your email account to be sure we have your correct address in the database. Check your battery.

How do I stop getting alerts?
Notify MCD staff in care of ealert@mcdmaine.org to be removed from the database. 

What happens if I lose the equipment or it breaks?
Notify MCD.  MCD will replace equipment as needed. 

Can I get alerts only or do I have to get equipment too?
Fill out the “Alerts only” application and you can receive alerts only. You are also eligible for a training manual. 

Can I get equipment only or do I have to get alerts too?
The emergency alert program was set up to provide deaf and heard of hearing people equal access to emergency messages.  The funding is for the equipment to receive these emergency messages and therefore the equipment and alerts cannot be separated.  However, you can decide which alerts you would like to receive.

ALL EQUIPMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE!
ALL EQUIPMENT IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY!
CALL OR E-MAIL MCD FOR MORE INFORMATION!