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Nationwide Emergency Alert System test scheduled for Wednesday

By Howard B. Owens

FYI: 

Although we are all familiar with the local Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages that we see on our televisions or hear over our radios, at 2 p.m. EST Wednesday Nov. 9, 2011 there will be a nationwide test of this system.

The purpose of the test is to assess the reliability and effectiveness of the EAS as a public-alert mechanism. EAS participants currently take part in state-level monthly tests and local-level weekly tests, but there's never been a nationwide test of the entire system.

This first-ever nationwide test of the system will run for approximately 30 seconds and all EAS participants must participate in this nationwide EAS Test. It will be broadcast on cable and satellite television and heard on the radio.

For more information check out the FCC website.

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