Emergency Alert System to be tested Nov. 9

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. 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 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."