Thanks for the comments and tip about a “complete” mass notification system — I can certainly see the value in broadcasting a message to people in hearing distance of a particular location (or set of locations). On the same token, the government’s Emergency Broadcast System performs a similar role though it does require one to have a radio or television to get the message.

The purpose of the system I mentioned, however, I don’t think is to specifically warn a group of people, but to notify those who will respond to an emergency… i.e., the first responders to an accident, administrators of a school facility, managers at a corporation… replacing the error-prone “phone tree” systems of old. This ENS is of course much more sophisticated with its ability to communicate via so many different devices, and is automated, so that one person being asleep, not answering their phone, etc. doesn’t keep the whole system from working.

There is no requirement for anyone to have a cell phone, computer, telephone or pager to receive this type of warning information and it works even when there is a power outage because it operates on batteries that can be charged by solar panels.

But be very careful. When you’re on a local’s turf, you may be expected to play by the locals’ rules, which may be slanted in their favor.

Sometimes a national realtor might be more apt to play by national rules.

Of course, the closer you get to Boston, the safer you’re inclined to be.