Be ready for FEMA's nationwide emergency alert test on Wednesday
The tests help ensure that the national emergency alert systems continue to be effective.
The Office of Public Safety is asking faculty and staff who work with students to make them aware that the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Communications Commission are planning a nationwide test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, or IPAWS, on Wednesday, Oct. 4. The alert will be sent to all consumer cellphones beginning at about 11:20 a.m. local time.
"These tests are an important tool to make sure the public can effectively stay informed about national emergencies," said Steve Patterson, interim vice president and chief safety officer. "But they can also be alarming if you don't know they are coming, so we are asking for everyone's help to make sure the campus community is aware."
The message will read: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed." The alert will display in English or Spanish, depending on the language settings on the phone. All wireless phones should receive the message only once. To ensure accessibility, the alerts will be accompanies by a unique tone and vibration.
The test will also include an Emergency Alert System message that will be sent to radios and televisions and last approximately one minute.
If the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to severe weather or other significant events, the test will be moved to Oct. 11. More information is available at FEMA's website.