FEMA and FCC plan nationwide emergency alert tests, Oct. 4.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
WASHINGTON, D.C. – FEMA and the FCC will conduct a nationwide test of its Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) starting at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Time Wednesday, Oct. 4.
The WEA portion of the test will be sent directly to consumer cell phones, while the EAS portion will be sent to radios and televisions.
FEMA and FCC are coordinating with wireless service providers, emergency managers and others to prepare for the national test to minimize confusion and maximize public safety.
The test will ensure all systems provide a means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those of a national concern.
The test may be postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant event. In that case, the test will be rescheduled for Oct. 11.
Consumers can expect to receive a text message on their cell phone at 2:20 p.m. stating “This is a Test of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
The EAS portion of the test will last a minute on your television or radio and contain a similar message.
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