UPDATE: ABOUT THE NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST NOVEMBER 9th
As we get close to the nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and all of our many partners are working together to spread the word to as many members of the public as possible -- so people know what to expect when the test takes place, and no one is caught off guard.
Similar to local emergency alert system tests, during the nationwide test on November 9, an audio message will interrupt television and radio programming indicating: "This is a test." The nationwide test will last approximately 30 seconds instead of 2-3 minutes, as originally announced. This change has been made to reduce the disruption to the American public, while still maintaining our ability to test the system's nationwide capabilities.
Please help us reach as many people as possible to let them know that this is only a test. Share information about the EAS test with your friends, family, employees, and associations members. Post a message on your social media site, and feel free to embed our videos on your website or blog. Updated sample articles and templates are enclosed below.
We would love to hear about work that you have done to join in preparing the nation for the November 9, test. Share highlights about the outreach that your organization and partners conduct to spread the news. This information can be sent directly to: FEMA-Private-Sector@dhs.gov .
We are asking everyone to help spread the word. And remember, on November 9 at 2:00 PM EST, Don't stress; it's only a test.
For videos, PSAs, and additional information please, visit FEMA FAQ's page and the FCC EAS Test page .
Related Blog Posts
- Help Us Spread the Word - On November 9, "This is Just a Test"
- Emergency Alert System Test: One Month Away
- Announcing First Nationwide EAS Test
Related Press Releases
*****UPDATED TEMPLATES*****
SHORT ARTICLE FOR NEWSLETTERS/INTERNET SITES
[your partners can use this content to place information on their websites or to create newsletters about the test]
First Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System November 9 at 2pm EST
As part of their ongoing efforts to keep our country and communities safe during emergencies, the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Emergency Management Agency will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The EAS test plays a key role in ensuring the nation is prepared for all hazards, and that the U.S. public can receive critical and vital information, should it ever be needed. The first nationwide test will be conducted Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. EDT. This test may last 30 seconds, and will be transmitted via television and radio stations within the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. Similar to local emergency alert system tests, an audio message will interrupt television and radio programming indicating: "This is a test." When the test is over, regular programming will resume. For more information about the nationwide Emergency Alert System test, please visit www.FEMA.gov and www.FCC.gov . On November 9 at 2 p.m. EDT, please remember: Don't stress; it's only a test.
FEMA Press Release - http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=55722
FEMA Blog - http://blog.fema.gov/2011/10/emergency-alert-system-test-one-month.html
FCC Website - http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test