Thompson Reminds 5th District Residents of Upcoming Emergency Alert System Nationwide Test

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in cooperation with 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), according to U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard. The EAS test will occur on Wednesday, November 9th at 2 p.m., and will be broadcast on all radio and television stations.

"This test will ensure the nation is prepared to deliver critical information during a national emergency that can help save lives and keep Americans safe," said Rep. Thompson. "In addition to state and local authorities, EAS is one of a number of systems that can provide information during an emergency. This gives our national emergency response teams the opportunity to assess the readiness and coordination of the current system.”

The EAS is a national public warning system that requires broadcasters, cable television systems, wireless cable systems, satellite digital audio radio service providers, and direct broadcast satellite providers to provide the communications capability to the President to address the American public during a national emergency. The system also may be used by state and local authorities to deliver emergency information. The nationwide EAS test will last for approximately 30 seconds.

The EAS test is designed to help federal authorities and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system and its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers nationally and regionally. Visit www.Ready.gov for more information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

To view FEMA’s Nationwide EAS Test Information and FAQs, click here.

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