This is a test

Nationwide Emergency Alert system to be tested next week

The Kootenai County Office of Emergency Management reports there will be a nationwide test of the National Emergency Alert System Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 11 a.m. here in the Pacific time zone.

This test represents the first time the National Emergency Alert System has been activated for testing

across the entire nation at the same time and provides the opportunity to make sure that all equipment and systems are working properly.

People should expect to see and hear the test on most major radio and television channels, including satellite and cable broadcasts.

Unlike past tests, there may not be the typical scrolling ticker visually announcing that, "This is a test."

People may see, "This is an Emergency Alert" displayed on their screens while a voice announces "This is a test."

Because of this change from past tests, it is extremely important that people realize ahead of time that what they are experiencing is actually a scheduled test.

The test may last up to 3.5 minutes, which may seem like an alarmingly long time to anyone who is not aware that the test is forthcoming and scheduled for such duration.

Of particular concern is that advance warning be provided to those with hearing and sight challenges as well as people who may have cognitive or intellectual disabilities. Persons unable to utilize all of their senses may become unduly alarmed should they not realize in advance that what they are seeing or hearing is only a test.

FEMA has provided a website where citizens can view a video explaining what to expect during this test: http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/media_records/6407

Information:

http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm