• 1NT – p – 2D*    proper announcement is: “hearts”
• 1NT – p – 2S*    if played as a relay to minors … proper announcement is: “alert” (face to face); "relay to minors" (virtual)
• 1NT – p – 3C*    if played as transfer to diamonds … proper announcement is “diamonds”

Pre-Alerts for certain partnership agreements

• pre-alerts for Precision
• pre-alert if playing a short club.

What is a “Pre-Alert”?  It means you must inform opponents at the beginning of every round what you are playing.   In Virtual bridge, type the pre-alert into the table chat before any bidding starts. 

What no longer requires an alert?

• Support Doubles and Re-doubles
• Jump shifts not in competition – no matter the strength shown

What are *new*  alert/announcement requirements?

• 1NT forcing/semi-forcing that could frequently contain four spades is now an announcement
• announce minimum suit length promised by a 1 level minor opening if less than 3.  “Could be short” is no longer sufficient.  Must be: “could be as short as 1” or  “could be as short as 2 ’’.
• Direct cuebids that are not Michaels must be alerted.    

Be aware of 2 Club Openers:  see this article from the September Bridge Bulletin

• In Open Games, pairs are required to alert their 2 club openers if their agreement allows for hands that do not meet the definition of Very Strong (ie, 4 losers without requisit point count).  
• In Limited Games: 2 club openers MUST meet the definition of VERY STRONG - anything less is not legal.

Find definitions of Hand Strength here:   ACBL Convention Chart

This may seem like a lot of changes to get used to; but, just think how far everyone has come adapting to the virtual world.  In the beginning, we had a few bumps and a steep learning curve – the new alert requirements will be no different. 

The directors will be there to help.  We will be putting in some reminders at the beginning of the games and will also do some ‘friendly’ reminders if we see something at the table.    Let’s be patient as we all learn to use (and apply) the new Alert Procedures. 

These updates are not just for virtual bridge; they also apply to face to face bridge; so we have a head start in getting used to them!

Your NODBC Director Team