An apparatus such as a television signal receiver (20), radio and/or other device having an emergency alert function provides alert outputs in manner which increases the likelihood that users are promptly notified of emergency events. According to an exemplary embodiment, a television signal receiver (20) includes a tuner (22) operative to tune signals including emergency alert signals capable of activating the emergency alert function. A processor (27) is operative to enable a disabled audio output device associated with the television signal receiver (20) responsive to activation of the emergency alert function.
