First Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System Set for Wednesday

A national test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) will take place here and across the country at 1 p.m. Wednesday. Regularly scheduled television, radio, cable and satellite shows will be interrupted as the system is being tested.

This first nationwide test of the system is being conducted by FEMA, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The goal is to determine whether the system would be effective in reaching the entire country in case of a substantial disaster.

The test is expected to last about 30 seconds. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio, television and cable. Similar to local EAS tests, the nationwide test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wireline providers across all states and territories.

The national-level EAS is a public alert and warning system that enables the president of the United States to address the American public during extreme emergencies. Emergency alert testing, initially designed in the 1950s, is run by FEMA and the FCC. In 2006 President George W. Bush signed an executive order to mandate the nationwide system and national alert capability.

FEMA has more information about the test here.

As the federal, state, tribal, territorial and local governments prepare for and test their capabilities, this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities and businesses, according to a federal government prepeared statement.

The site, Ready.gov, has information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.