Americans are advised to prepare for a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS), scheduled to interrupt television and radio programming on November 17, with December 3 as a backup date. Federal officials are providing advance notice to prevent alarm when the test occurs.
The EAS is a system that connects thousands of television and radio stations, cable systems, and satellite providers to disseminate critical warnings during emergencies. It also serves as a communication channel for the president to address the nation during major crises.
During the test, which is set to begin around 2:20 p.m. ET, viewers and listeners may encounter a full-screen message or a scrolling banner accompanied by alert tones and an announcement. The message will clearly state that it is a test of the EAS, issued by FEMA, and that normal programming will resume afterward. The drill is designed to evaluate broadcasters' ability to receive and relay a national emergency message, identifying potential failures before they impact real disaster response.
This test is being conducted by FEMA in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The message will specify: "This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 2:20 to 2:50 hours ET."
The planned test has prompted discussions online, with some expressing concern amidst ongoing global events. Concurrently, governments in several European countries, including the UK, Sweden, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, and France, have been urging citizens to stockpile basic supplies to ensure self-sufficiency during emergencies.
The UK's recently updated guidance recommends households maintain three days' worth of essentials, such as food and water, to manage potential disruptions to essential services caused by severe weather, cyberattacks, or other unforeseen events. Sweden's civil defense advice suggests households should be prepared to be self-reliant for at least one week in case of crisis or war.
Former FBI deputy director Dan Bongino has also advised Americans to take preparedness seriously. He recommended stocking emergency radios, batteries, food, and water filtration systems. "Get your stuff today. Please. Do it for your family," Bongino urged, emphasizing that preparation can reduce anxiety and prevent shortages during a crisis.
Bongino's remarks follow the revelation of FORTRESS, a Pentagon plan aimed at ensuring US forces can remain operational and military bases supplied for at least 90 days, even if civilian infrastructure fails. The plan involves developing portable nuclear reactors, large battery systems, and independent power grids for military bases, alongside preparing civilian factories for defense production and stockpiling necessary materials. Pentagon chief spokesperson Sean Parnell stated, "We don't want to rely on standard civilian municipal infrastructure to run our national defense."