Community
Emergency
Notification
System
CENS
What is CENS? CENS
is the Community Emergency Notification System. The
system is designed to rapidly notify an affected area of
an emergency by sending a recorded message through the
telephone system. How does CENS work? CENS
uses the 911 database to extract phone numbers
determined by the circle or area drawn on the CENS map.
CENS launches a prerecorded message to the telephone
numbers in the area defined. Will CENS work with cell phones
or VoIP phones? Cell
and VoIP phones are not part of the 911 database.
You now have the option to register your Cell or VoIP
phone with the CENS system. You will only receive
CENS notifications based on the address you provide for
your Cell and or VoIP phone. Please click here to
register your Cell or VoIP phone. How will CENS appear on Caller
ID? Your
caller ID will show "REVERSE911CALL" as the caller, with
a (480) area code. The CENS system is based in the East
Valley, which is why you will see the (480) area code. How does the system work with
answering machines or voice mail? The system is designed to leave a message on voice mail or an answering machine. How does CENS handle non-English
speaking households and TTY devices? The message is recorded at your local 911 call center. The dispatcher will record the
message in the necessary languages. The system also has
TTY capability for the hearing impaired. There is TTY
detection equipment that will bypass the voice-recorded
portion when a TTY or TDD is detected. What if the phone is busy when
the system calls? The system is designed to call back if the line is busy or if there is no answer. The system will wait five minutes before a second callback is made. What happens if a resident moves
or a new phone is installed? Residents that add or change
information for a land line phone serviced by Qwest, Cox
or other local phone companies will have the information
updated within the 911 database. Residents that
self register their Cell or VoIP phones will need to
update their address at the
Self Registration Portal. What will the CENS call tell me? Each notification call will be
different. The primary agency handling the emergency
will make the recording you will hear. It is important
to follow the instructions on the recording. Should I call 911 if I need more
information? No, 911 should only be called when
you have an emergency. The emergency notification
recording will give you instructions to follow. Who will use CENS? The CENS Program is available to
all law enforcement and fire agencies in the Maricopa
Region. The Maricopa Region extends from Wickenburg to
Apache Junction. Additonal Questions? Send us an email at: Reverse911@phoenix.gov and we will do our best to answer your questions promptly.
View a Sample Registration
Frequently Asked Questions