An alert message unit for use in a message distribution system is provided. The alert message unit includes an input configured to receive a cable television signal, a processing module in communication with the input, and an alert mechanism. The processing module is configured to locate an alert message, wherein the alert message is embedded within a frequency band of the cable television signal. The processing module is further configured to determine whether the located alert message is addressed to the alert message unit, and activate the alert mechanism if the alert message is addressed to the alert message unit.