Feds Test Emergency Alert System Today

The first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) will occur today (Wednesday) on all broadcast media, including television and radio. The thirty-second message will appear to be real, but it is only a test of the EAS system.

The test will use a live national alert code to deliver a message that will alert viewers as if an actual emergency announcement is coming.  It will also include an audible notice that "this is a test."

The EAS system test is being conducted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to check the reliability of the EAS system, including equipment, operators and participants. 

For people with vision and hearing disabilities, the test will include an audio message announcing that the exercise is a “Test Only,” but there may or may not be a corresponding visual message alerting viewers that this is only a test of the EAS system.

If you have a family member or know of an individual or neighbor that has a visual or hearing disability, please let them know this is only a test.