On November 9, 2011 at 2 p.m. (EST), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). All EAS participants (TV and radio broadcast stations, cable operators, satellite radio) must participate.

The purpose of the test is to evaluate the reliability and effectiveness of the EAS. Although EAS participants currently participate in monthly and weekly EAS tests, there has never been a nationwide, top-down review of the entire system. EAS participants must submit the results of their participation to the FCC within 45 days after completing the test. The FCC and FEMA will use these results to assess the EAS as a public alert mechanism and identify areas for improvement. We expect that the FCC will launch an online database for EAS participants within the next few weeks.

The test is not a pass-fail exercise; participants will not be subject to any FCC enforcement action in connection with the test, provided they comply with the required submission of the results of their participation. NAB encourages all stations to consult with their station engineers to check and prepare their EAS equipment in advance of the test, and to coordinate with their state broadcasters associations and local emergency management agencies where appropriate.

The next FEMA webinar for stations will take place on Friday, September 30 from 1:30 – 3:30 pm EST: FEMA IPAWS Special Event - Prepared and Ready: The Final Stretch Before the Nationwide EAS Test. Please note that if you have Live Meeting Client correctly installed, you do not need a pass code or username.

As November 9 approaches, NAB will provide additional guidance and reminders concerning the EAS test.

Both the FCC and FEMA provide helpful information regarding the nationwide EAS test on their websites. You can also contact NAB's Legal and Regulatory Department at (866) 682-0276 with any questions.