Posted
Updated
Test of the Nationwide Emergency Alert System Scheduled for November 9, 2011
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 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) on Wednesday, November 9, at 11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time.
When the test occurs, please do not call 9-1-1.
The public will hear a brief message clearly indicating, "This is a test." The message will be the same across radio, television, cable and satellite outlets. To further avoid confusion, TV outlets may prepare an on-screen "crawl" or other visual reminder indicating this is merely a test.
More information about the national EAS test is available at:
The national EAS is an alert and warning system that enables the president to address the American public during extreme emergencies. This test will resemble frequently conducted, local EAS tests. However, this is a national event. As such, this test will broadcast to television and radio outlets throughout the country.
This event serves as a reminder that everyone in the Portland area should sign up at PublicAlerts.org/signup to receive emergency notifications via landline phone, cell phone, text and email. In cases of an actual emergency, the Public Alerts system enables local response personnel to notify homes and businesses as needed with information to protect life and safety.
For more information about family and individual preparedness, please visit:
- Washington County Preparedness: http://take5tosurvive.com and http://www.ocem.org
- Oregon Emergency Management: http://www.oregon.gov/OMD/OEM
- National Preparedness: www.ready.gov and http://www.fema.gov/areyouready
Media Contact:
Philip Bransford, Communications Officer
(503) 846-8685
[email protected]