Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Set for November 9

Many of us don’t think about the Emergency Alert System (EAS) unless we happen to be watching television and suddenly the program we’re focused on is interrupted by loud chirping noises with a robotic voice issuing a warning. 

While some may find these sounds annoying and disrupting there is great importance of these alerts in our daily lives.

First National Test on November 9th at 12 Noon

EAS, a warning system governed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will conduct its first-ever National Test interrupting every radio and TV broadcast, cablecast or satellite-cast in the United States on November 9, 2011 at Noon.

Damon Penn, head of FEMA’s National Continuity Programs, said, “A national test of our Emergency Alert System, with the vital communications support and involvement of participants, is a step towards ensuring that the alert and warning community is prepared to deliver critical information that can help save lives and protect property.”

If you are watching television or listening to the radio at the time of the nationwide test on November 9, you’re not required to do anything.

Please do not call 911 unless you have an actual emergency. Remember, this is just a test.

EAS is used in times of emergency including serious weather situations or any large scale civil emergency in your community.