WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Association of Broadcasters today announced new resources to assist broadcasters with the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS), to be held on November 9, 2011 at 2 p.m. EST. The resources will help local radio and TV stations prepare for the test and raise public awareness.
The National EAS Test, conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will be a diagnostic exercise to determine the reliability and effectiveness of the system. All EAS participants, including every TV and radio stations across the country, must participate in the test.
Participants will not be judged on a "pass-fail" basis regarding their performance in the test, but must report to the FCC certain results of the exercise within 45 days. TV and radio stations will need to report on whether, and from whom, they received the EAS test message and whether they rebroadcast it to the public, among other information.
To assist broadcasters in meeting requirements of the test, NAB has created a simple checklist of relevant information for every phase of the National EAS Test. The checklist provides steps for broadcasters to ensure their equipment is ready for the exercise, and what actions are required of them during and after the test.
In addition, NAB has teamed with FEMA and the FCC to distribute radio and television public service announcements (PSAs) to promote Americans' awareness of the test. Television PSAs will be available via satellite feed on Friday, October 14 at 11:30 a.m., while radio PSAs are available here. Sample scripts will also be available to allow stations to tailor or produce their own PSAs.
NAB encourages broadcasters to begin airing the PSAs at least one week before the test, and with increasing frequency as November 9 approaches.
For further information about the National EAS Test, NAB members may contact NAB's Legal Department at (866) 682-0276 or (202) 429-5430. Stations may also refer to the FCC's National EAS Test website or FEMA's National EAS Test website.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.
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