Officials frequently fail to use the federal Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) during major disasters. This system can broadcast critical warnings to cellphones and other devices in targeted areas. Numerous incidents since 2016, including wildfires in Gatlinburg and California, and hurricanes in North Carolina, highlight this recurring problem. Reviews consistently cite a lack of training, planning, or confidence in using IPAWS as the primary reason for these failures. Some officials also express concern about "alert fatigue" or facing backlash for false alarms.In the Santa Cruz Mountains, a review noted a general lack of institutional knowledge regarding these communication technologies. Similarly, in Western North Carolina, few officials utilized IPAWS ahead of Hurricane Helene, leading to inadequate warnings. ProPublica identified at least 15 major disasters where officials in affected communities failed to send timely IPAWS alerts. Experts like Hamilton Bean have observed that this issue is not new but a persistent problem.Emergency managers are central to these decisions, often juggling multiple duties and facing political pressures. The failure to use IPAWS means that potentially life-saving information does not reach vulnerable populations. The devastating flash floods in Kerr County, Texas, exemplify this, where local officials delayed or failed to use IPAWS until after the disaster had intensified. This lack of preparedness and reliance on less effective local systems results in preventable loss of life.