Nationwide EAS Test is Coming: "THIS IS A TEST, ONLY A TEST!"

11/03/2011
Lawrence, Kan ?] The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other agencies, will conduct the first nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) test on November 9, 2011 at approximately 1:00 p.m. The EAS is a national public information warning system that requires broadcasters and cable television systems to provide communications capability for the President to address the public during a national emergency. Although the EAS is frequently used by local and state agencies to send weather alerts, Amber alerts, and other critical information, there has never been a national activation or test of the system. Wednesday?fs nationwide test will be transmitted by area radio and television stations, cable systems, and satellite TV providers, and will interrupt regular programming for approximately three minutes. During the test, listeners will hear a message indicating that ?gThis is a test.?h This test will resemble the statewide monthly tests that listeners are already familiar with; however, the video message slide or scroll on television may not indicate that ?gThis is a test.?h This is due to the use of the EAS code that would be used in an actual emergency. This event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses.

Related Links:
Press Release - http://bit.ly/sbzmGV

Media Contact:
Bob Newton, PIO
Emergency Management Department
785-331-5787
bnewton@douglas-county.com