Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test Scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011
PHOENIX—A nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 9, at noon MST. The test will be broadcast over radio and television stations statewide and last approximately three minutes. The EAS has never before been tested simultaneously nationwide.
“We’re testing the EAS on November 9 to ensure the system works as expected,” said Arizona Division of Emergency Management Director Lou Trammell. “The test is just that—a test. There will be no need for alarm, but we want people to know about the November test because it may last longer than the monthly tests.”
In an effort to raise public awareness, the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) created a resource page and a countdown widget for local media and partner emergency response agencies to link to and embed on their websites (see below.)
The EAS is used by local, state, federal and tribal governments to communicate potentially life-saving information during an emergency. Most Arizonans are familiar with the distinctive tone and the scrolling message unique to the EAS. The National Weather Service (NWS) regularly uses EAS to alert communities about severe weather and anticipated flood conditions.
In the aftermath of a national catastrophic event, authorities will transmit crucial information to the public through as many methods as possible. The national EAS program provides the nation with an unparalleled communications network, available even under the direst conditions.
The nationwide EAS Test is being jointly conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Communications Commission, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s NWS.
Visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) website at www.azein.gov for real-time emergency updates, preparedness and hazard information, and multimedia resources.
