If you’ve got your TV or radio on around lunchtime today, don’t be alarmed if you hear something a little strange.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are conducting the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) via media communications devices such as radio and television.  The test will take place at 1 p.m. CST and last approximately 30 seconds.  

The EAS test will be similar to monthly media alerting tests, but according to an FCC press release, there may be a few differences.  TV viewers should see and hear a “this is a test” message, and radio listeners should here the same.  It is important for people to realize this is a test, because program limitations may cause some viewers and listeners to not receive the standard “this is a test” message.  

Though the EAS is regularly tested at the state and local levels, it has never been tested nationally.  It is being tested now in an attempt to prepare for possible major disasters. 

For more information about EAS testing, visit the FCC website.