Safety alerts are push notifications from Sonder about potential dangers, disruptions or events happening near your location. They're sent by Sonder's Operations Intelligence team, who monitor news and emerging threats across Sonder's service regions. They act as your eyes and your ears. When something significant happens near you, Sonder sends an alert to help you stay safe and informed.
Examples of safety alerts:
- Public safety incidents or emergencies nearby (e.g., armed robbery, accident)
- Significant disruptions that could affect you (e.g., public transport strikes, road closures)
- Weather emergencies (e.g., flooding, severe storms)
- Public health warnings relevant to your area
- Major events that might affect your commute or plans
How they work
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Location-based: Alerts are based on your app location. If you're in an area where something significant is happening, you'll get notified. It's important to check you have your location and notifications enabled in the Sonder app to receive these.
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Real-time: The Operations Intelligence team monitors events and sends alerts as situations develop.
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Actionable: Alerts include context and sometimes suggestions on what you should do (e.g., "Avoid the CBD today," "Check public transport updates").
When you receive a safety alert:
- Read it fully. The alert will explain what's happening and where.
- Take the suggested action if relevant to you. This might be avoiding a certain area, checking transport updates, or taking extra precautions.
- You don't have to do anything. If an alert doesn't affect your plans or location, you can dismiss it.
- If you're concerned, reach out. If an alert describes something that's affecting your safety or wellbeing, you can contact Sonder for support.
Frequently asked questions.
How does Sonder know my location?
Safety alerts use the location data from your phone (if you've given the app permission). You control this setting. If location is turned off, you'll still get some alerts about major events, but location-specific alerts won't be personalised to you.
What if I get an alert about an area I'm not in?
Sometimes Sonder sends broader alerts about major events or emergencies, in which case everyone in a service region might be notified.
Are safety alerts different from other Sonder notifications?
Yes. Safety alerts come from Sonder's Operations Intelligence team and are about real-time local dangers or disruptions. Other notifications from Sonder (like wellness tips) are different and you can manage those separately.