The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The national test will occur on Wednesday, November 9th at 2 pm and will last up to 30 seconds.

The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies. NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency managers also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts.

Similar to local EAS tests that are already conducted frequently, the nationwide test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wireline video service providers across all states and the territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

On November 9, the public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio and television. Under the FCC's rules, radio and television broadcasters, cable operators, satellite digital audio radio service providers, direct broadcast satellite service providers and wireline video service providers are required to receive and transmit presidential EAS messages to the public. A national test will help the federal partners and EAS participants determine the reliability of the system and its effectiveness in notifying the public of emergencies and potential dangers nationally and regionally.

Over the past two years and as part of ongoing national preparedness planning efforts, FEMA, the FCC and other federal partners, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, Emergency Alert System participants and other stakeholders have been working toward making this test a reality.

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 emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses. Anyone can visit emergency.baltimorecity.gov for more information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

The Baltimore City LEPC is a forum for citizens, communities, businesses, and government to share information and collaborate on disaster plans to improve the City’s preparedness for all hazards. LEPC general meetings are held quarterly and provide an opportunity to hear from experts in the public and private sectors, network with colleagues, and find out more about what partners in the City is doing to be prepared and how you can help.

Please forward LEPC notices to anyone you know who may be interested in emergency preparedness in Baltimore City.

Visit the Baltimore City LEPC website for more information including past meeting minutes and presentations.