Purpose Statement

This article explains how to configure Android’s Do Not Disturb (DND) settings to allow First Due alerts to bypass notification restrictions. This ensures personnel remain informed of incidents and calls while minimizing non-critical interruptions.

Background Information

Fire and EMS personnel often rely on mobile devices for real-time incident notifications. Android’s Do Not Disturb feature silences calls, texts, and app notifications, which can unintentionally block critical alerts.

By exempting the First Due app from DND restrictions, users can:

• Continue receiving emergency alerts while on duty
• Reduce distractions from non-essential notifications
• Maintain operational readiness without disabling DND entirely

Note: Android interfaces vary by manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.), so steps may differ slightly.

Required Permissions

To configure Do Not Disturb exceptions, users must have:

• Access to device settings
• Permission to manage notifications and app settings
• First Due mobile app installed and logged in

No special First Due administrative permissions are required.

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Allow First Due via Notification Exceptions

1. Open Settings on your Android device
   
    
2. Tap Notifications
   
    
3. Select Do Not Disturb
   
    
4. Tap App Notifications (or similar option)
   
    
5. Select Add Apps
   
    
6. Locate and select First Due
   
   
7. Confirm that First Due is now allowed to send notifications during DND
   
    

Method 2: Configure Through Modes (Common on Newer Devices)

1. Open Settings
   
    
2. Navigate to Modes
   
    
3. Select Do Not Disturb
   
    
4. Tap Apps
   
    
5. Select the gear icon next to app settings
   
    
6. Tap Add Apps
   
    
7. Scroll and select First Due
   
    
8. Choose notification preferences:
   • All notifications (recommended for full alerting)
   • Or customize specific alert types

Best Practices

• Enable all notifications for First Due to avoid missing critical alerts
• Periodically verify settings after OS updates
• Test alerts after configuration to confirm proper functionality
• Avoid enabling too many app exceptions, which can reduce DND effectiveness

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I’m not receiving First Due alerts during DND. What should I check?

• Confirm First Due is added to DND exception list
• Ensure notifications are enabled within the First Due app
• Check battery optimization settings (may restrict background activity)

Q: My phone settings look different. What should I do?

• Android interfaces vary by manufacturer
• Search “Do Not Disturb” in your device settings
• Refer to your device’s user manual if needed

Q: Can I customize which alerts come through?

• Yes, some devices allow filtering by notification type within the app settings