ORLANDO, July 14, 2025 — WUCF, Central Florida’s PBS and NPR stations, today announced the launch of BEACON (Broadcast Emergency Alerts and Communications Operations Network), a groundbreaking new emergency broadcast service designed to keep Central Floridians informed and safe with real-time, critical updates.
Built with artificial intelligence and powered by the expertise of emergency managers and weather specialists from the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network (FPREN), BEACON provides a continuous audio stream of essential information, including severe weather alerts, traffic updates and statewide safety notices.
Unlike traditional emergency broadcasts that interrupt programming, BEACON runs 24/7 with always-on updates to keep communities prepared before, during and after crises.
“Providing reliable, potentially life-saving information is core to WUCF’s mission to serve our community,” said Jennifer Cook, Executive Director of WUCF. “BEACON empowers Central Floridians with immediate, localized updates, whether they’re at home, at work or on the go. It’s a powerful new tool in keeping our neighbors safe and informed.”
Broadcast technology remains one of the most dependable ways to reach the public during disasters, especially when power outages or cell network disruptions limit access to mobile devices or internet services. BEACON leverages this resilience, ensuring critical alerts reach Central Floridians even under extreme conditions.
Born in Florida, Built for Safety
BEACON was conceived at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications and developed with funding support from the Florida Department of Emergency Management and technological innovation from Futuri Media.
WUCF will serve as the exclusive host station for Central Florida, delivering local alerts tailored to the region’s diverse communities.
Central Florida audiences can now access BEACON in several ways:
- WUCF FM HD3 Radio Channel (for listeners with HD radio receivers)
- Live streaming at wucf.org/BEACON
- The BEACON mobile app, available nationwide for free on iOS and Android. Search for “BEACON 24/7 Local Alerts” for real-time local updates.
“For more than a decade we’ve been proud to work with WUCF as a part of FPREN, and Beacon is the natural extension of our nationally recognized public safety efforts in public broadcasting," said Randy Wright, Executive Director of WUFT and FPREN. "With UCF’s strong emergency management and public safety academic programs, WUCF was the perfect fit for an innovative and AI-driven public alerting tool like BEACON. We’re excited to once again partner with WUCF in service to the Orlando region."
A Natural Fit for UCF’s Leadership in Emergency Management
WUCF is licensed through the University of Central Florida, home to the nation’s No. 1-ranked graduate program in Emergency and Crisis Management, according to U.S. News & World Report. WUCF plans to explore collaborations with UCF’s emergency management experts to help raise public awareness about disaster readiness and the science of crisis response.
“Central Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, storms and other emergencies,” Cook added. “We see BEACON as a critical resource not just for immediate alerts, but as a platform that can connect our community with educational resources and expertise, including the incredible work being done right here at UCF.”
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About WUCF: WUCF serves as the region’s trusted source for educational programming, arts, culture and local storytelling. As Central Florida’s only PBS affiliate and home for jazz, WUCF offers free, accessible content that enriches lives, fosters curiosity and strengthens the community. Guided by the mission “We Change Lives,” WUCF is committed to connecting, inspiring and empowering audiences across all platforms. To explore WUCF’s impact and programming, visit www.wucf.org.
WUCF Media Contact:
Christine Dellert Mullon
407.718.0199