FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. today (Oct. 4).
The purpose of the test is to ensure the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. If the test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, it will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 11.
The Wireless Emergency Alert portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones and the Emergency Alert System portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions.
FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with Emergency Alert System participants, wireless providers, emergency managers and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.
All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide Wireless Emergency Alert test:
Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m., cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, Wireless Emergency Alert-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower and whose wireless provider participates in Wireless Emergency Alert, should be capable of receiving the test message.
The message will read: “This is a test of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.
Important information about the Emergency Alert System test:
The test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers and wireline video providers.
The message will read “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.”