October 4, 2023 – millions of Americans across the nation will experience a momentary interruption in their daily routines today, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducts the National Emergency Alert System (EAS) test. This annual test is a critical component of the country’s emergency preparedness, ensuring that the system is in optimal working condition to disseminate vital information in times of crisis.
The test, will began at 2:20 PM EDT, is aimed to assess the effectiveness and reliability of the EAS in reaching the public in case of emergencies, such as natural disasters, severe weather events, Amber Alerts, and national security threats.
Throughout the test, televisions and radios will emit a loud, distinctive tone followed by a text message that reads, “This is a test of the National Emergency Alert System. This is only a test.” The message will also be broadcast on radio stations, cable television systems, and wireless providers to ensure that it reached as many people as possible.
FEMA, in partnership with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), conducts these tests annually to identify any issues and make necessary improvements to the EAS. It also serves as an opportunity for the public to familiarize themselves with the sound and purpose of the alerts.
Local emergency management agencies also remind the public about the importance of having an emergency preparedness plan in place, including knowing evacuation routes, assembling emergency kits, and staying informed through multiple sources of information, including the EAS.
The National EAS test serves as a vital reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness in an unpredictable world. As the nation faces various threats and challenges, the EAS remains a crucial tool in safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.
The original Emergency Alert system was created in 1963 and was called the Emergency Broadcast System (EBS). The FCC required all Radio and TV Stations to maintain equipment to receive and rebroadcast these emergency alerts. This system was updated and the name changed to the Emergency Alert System (EAS) in 1997. Then, beginning in 2001, all Cable TV providers were required by law to start carrying the EAS Alerts, along with all Radio and TV Stations. In 2017, all wireless carriers (cell phone companies) were required to start carrying the emergency alerts as part of the Wireless Emergency Alerts system
