Emergency alert appearing on a cellphone.Photo:Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Emergency alert sounds will simultaneously impact cellphones, radios and televisions across the United States on Wednesday — but don’t worry, it’s just a test.
A test of Wireless Emergency Alerts and the Emergency Alert System will be conducted at exactly 2:20 p.m. ET on Oct. 4, according tothe Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The tests are being conducted “to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level,” according to anAug. 3 press releasefrom FEMA.
“We recognize that in disasters, seconds count,” FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell saidin a videoabout the upcoming test. “Getting alerts out promptly to our communities saves lives.”
All major U.S. wireless providers will transmit the test, meaning those within range of an active cell tower “should receive the national test,” per the agency.
The English message sent to consumers’ phones will say: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
Those with Spanish settings will receive a message that says: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”
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The wireless test will technicallylast 30 minutes, though cellphones should only receive one message during the wireless test, per FEMA.
Although some newer phone models may include settings where users can opt-out of tests and alerts, FEMA hassaidthose settings will not impact Wednesday’s national test.
However, if your phone is off, not connected with a cell tower or has airplane mode activated, it will not receive the message, per the agency.
This will be the second time a test has been conducted on cellular devices nationwide, according to FEMA. The last instance occurred in2021. FEMA said Wednesday’s test is the seventh nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System.
“We want to make sure that when it counts, we can keep you informed,” Criswell said in the video.
A backup testing date has been set for Oct. 11, the agency noted.
source: people.com
