Nationwide Emergency Alert System undergoes first test

The first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System occurred on Wednesday, November 9 at 11 a.m., on all television channels and radio stations.

This first-ever federal level test had a few differences from the regular tests that viewers are used to seeing and hearing.

 Unlike most EAS tests, which may run only in a local area, the November 9 EAS test was seen and heard across entire country at the same time. The test lasted about 30 seconds.

This is the first time there has been a nationwide test of EAS, and there was concern that it could trigger calls to 9-1-1 from people unfamiliar with the process.  The Washington State Patrol reminded that viewers should NOT call 9-1-1 for information.    The 9-1-1 emergency number should only be used when someone needs police, fire or medical help in response to an incident.

The test will be conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

For more information, visit the FCC's web site.