The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Adminsitration (NOAA) will be conducting the first-ever National Emergency Alert System (EAS) test on Wednesday, November 9th at 1:00pm.

What does this mean for me?

While you may be familiar with tests of the Emergency Alert System, this test will contain elements not normally displayed in local-level activations. An audio message will be played that explains the national test, as well as provide you with information on emergency preparedness, however, scrolling text on the screen may not indicate that this is a test.

Please know that this is only a test, and that you should not call 911 unless there is an actual emergency which threatens life or property. Non-Emergency calls to 911 could result in an overloading of the telephone system at the call center, and delay the receiving of calls by those who have actual, life-threatening emergencies.

Where will I see the test?

 

Houston residents can expect to be able to see the test on local radio and broadcast, cable and satellite television stations.

Why is this test important?

The EAS system is intended to provide the President of the United States the ability to communicate emergency information to the nation in a catastrophic incident. Testing this important system allows agencies to determine gaps in the system and help improve it to ensure that everyone has access to important emergency information.

How else can I stay informed about emergencies?

Houston residents have many options for staying informed during emergencies.

• Sign up for AlertHouston, and receive emergency information via e-mail from the City of Houston Office of Emergency Management
• Purchase a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio to receive alerts for severe weather and other emergency situations. These are available online at RedCrossStore.org or at most major electronics retailers throughout the City.
• Sign up for emergency weather notifications from The Weather Channel by clicking here.

 

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