As you may have heard, there will be a test of the nationwide Emergency Alert System tomorrow at 1:00 P.M. CST.

The Emergency Alert System is an alert and warning system that can be activated by the president to address and provide information to the American public during emergencies and to issue more localized emergency alerts.

I want to stress this is just a test.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Communications Commission and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will administer the test as part of their ongoing efforts to keep the nation safe during emergencies and strengthen resilience against all hazards.

The test will be similar to those you see or hear on local television or radio stations, but on a larger scale. Emergency broadcast system alerts are typically done on one station at a time whereas this test will be on every single TV and radio station all at once and should include both audio messages and a video scrolling message that a test is in progress.

According to information from Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM), the test will last 30 seconds. During this period, regularly scheduled television, radio, cable and satellite shows will be interrupted as the system is tested.

This upcoming test serves as a good reminder to establish an emergency preparedness kit and emergency plan for yourself, your family, and your community.  ADEM’s website and “Ready Arkansas” have a wealth of information about how to prepare for, and stay informed about, what to do in the event of an actual emergency.