Alert Procedures
The principles behind the procedures are:
- Both pairs at the table have the right to equal access to all information contained in any auction.
- Ethical bridge players will recognize the obligation to give complete explanations. They will accept the fact that any such information is entirely for the benefit of the opponents, and may not be used to assist their own partnership.
- The opponents need not ask exactly the "right" question. Any request for information should be the trigger. Opponents need only indicate the desire for information - all relevant disclosure should be given automatically.
The alert procedure requires a delayed alert of conventional bids above 3NT on or after the opening bidder’s 2nd turn to call. All too often players at all levels are not providing the required explanations and the defenders are forced to ask questions to get an understanding of the auction.
