Date: Fri, 4 Nov 2011 21:39:20 -0700
From: michaeljamesanthony@yahoo.com
Subject: Advisory - A Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Will Take Place on November 9, 2011
To:
Be advised!
Subject: Advisory - A Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Will Take Place on November 9, 2011
A Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Will Take Place on November 9, 2011
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).
The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 12 p.m. MDT and 11 a.m. PDT and will last 30 seconds. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for radio, television, and cable.
The National-level EAS is a public alert and warning system that enables the President of the United States to address the American public during extreme emergencies. Similar to local EAS tests that are conducted frequently, the Nationwide Test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wire line providers across all states and territories.
The purpose of the test is to help government organizations and EAS Participants (radio and TV broadcast stations, cable operators and satellite radio and TV) to determine the reliability of the EAS system. It is not a "pass-fail" exercise. However, the first National EAS Test will serve as a benchmark for measuring the effectiveness of the EAS system, and for improvements in the EAS system going forward. FEMA and the FCC intend to conduct National EAS Tests on an annual basis (although not always on November 9).
Questions regarding the National EAS test should be directed to Robert Feeley, BHS Public Affairs Officer at rfeeley@bhs.idaho.gov
