A team of federal agencies will lead a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System at 2 p.m. (Eastern) November 9, 2011.

Similar to local EAS tests that are conducted frequently, the nationwide test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wireline providers across all states and territories.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the test, which may last up to three and a half minutes. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test.' The audio message will be the same for radio, television, and cable.

The National-level EAS is a public alert and warning system that enables the President of the United States to address the American public during extreme emergencies. Over the past two years and as part of ongoing national preparedness planning efforts, FEMA, the FCC and other federal partners, State, local, tribal and territorial governments, EAS Participants, and others in the EAS Community have been working toward making this test a reality.

As the federal, state, tribal, territorial and local governments prepare for and test their capabilities; this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for themselves, their families, communities, and businesses.

For more information, visit www.getprepared.in.gov.