Fwd: Fw: National EAS Test

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Matthew Frankland

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Nov 2, 2011, 9:15:25 AM11/2/11

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Subject: National EAS Test

On November 9th, the Federal Communications Commission will conduct the first national test of the Emergency Alert System of all TV, radio, cable and satellite systems across the country. Until now, the national system has never been tested.

For particulars see: http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

The test is expected to generate calls to 911 centers by people who have not received advance warning of the 3 minute test to be conducted November 9th at 2 PM.

All channels, including PEG channels, on cable systems will be over ridden with the emergency "test" message.

Henceforth, national EAS testing will be conducted annually and is expected to include all wireless devices, such as mobile telephones.

To "get the message out," I am recommending that PEG channel operators place a message on their bulletin board advising the public of the pending national EAS test to educate the public and forestall inquiry telephone calls to 911 centers, thus leaving the lines open to callers with genuine emergencies.

FEMA is preparing both audio and video PSAs for broadcasters to use. If you are interested in acquiring a PSA or have questions about the EAS test, contact me at 919-417-5019 (cell).