National TEST of Emergency Alert System Wednesday November 9th at 2pm Eastern

On November 9th Next Wednesday at 2pm Eastern there will be a NATIONAL TEST on all networks  this is a test of the National Emergency Alert System please keep in mind  it is a test, only a test.  If it were an actual emergency.... well, now that's the point right?  Basically if you can get to a TV to check it out ~ you'll want to because if the whole world goes sideways this is how folks will first be told...

How long will the Test last?  The test will last for approximately 30 seconds.

Why is the Test being conducted at this particular date and time? The November 9 date is near the end of hurricane season and before the severe winter weather season. The 2 p.m. Eastern broadcast time will minimize disruption during rush hours, while ensuring that the test can occur during normal business hours across several time zones.

What will people hear and see during the Test? During the test, listeners will hear a message indicating that “This is a test.” Although the EAS Test may resemble the periodic, monthly EAS tests that most Americans are already familiar with, there will be some differences in what viewers will see and hear. The audio message will be the same for all EAS Participants; however, due to limitations in the EAS, the video test message scroll may not be the same or indicate that “This is a test.” This is due to the use of the live EAN code – the same code that would be used in an actual emergency. The text at the top of the television screen may indicate that an “Emergency Action Notification has been issued.” This notification is used to disseminate a national alert and in this case, the test. In addition, the background image that appears on video screens during an alert may indicate that “This is a test,” but in some instances there might not be an image at all. There are several limitations to the current EAS for individuals with access and functional needs. FEMA and the FCC are committed to providing organizations and the EAS community with information well in advance of the Test. FEMA and the FCC will further engage the EAS community to better understand the wide range of information and access needs in preparation for the national EAS. IPAWS has been performing outreach to access and functional needs organizations in several different forums, including working groups and roundtables led by the FEMA Office of Disability Integration and Coordination, with representation from multiple FEMA program offices, other Department of Homeland Security components, and other Federal Departments and Agencies.


For more detailed information please visit FEMA's website at:
FEMA Public & Press info for National EAS Test Nov 9 2011