There are several different types of emergency alerts that can be issued and often times they vary state to state. However, when it comes to Amber Alerts and Silver Alerts they are triggered by meeting a stringent list of criteria and then sent through a very sophisticated warning system. Because these alerts are pushed through the broadcast systems via the Emergency Alert System, they can also be triggered across state lines., meaning this warning system and understanding how they work, can be critical when it comes to saving lives.