“This is a test…”
Similar to local Emergency Alert System tests, this test is scheduled for November 9, 2011
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The national test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 2:00 PM ET/11:00 AM PT and will last 30 seconds.
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Important things to know about the Emergency Alert System (EAS) test
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The EAS is a national alert and warning system established to enable the President of the United States to address the American public during emergencies. NOAA's National Weather Service, governors and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts. http://www.fema.gov/eastest/
“this is only a test”
As we get close to the test, many people are working together to spread the word to as many members of the public as possible -- so people know what to expect when the test takes place, and no one is caught off guard. Spread the word to your neighbors, co-workers, friends and family -- share this web page, post a message on your social media site, and the FCC even has videos you can embed on your website or blog.
For additional questions, visit the FAQ’s page and the FCC EAS Test page.
“If it were an actual emergency…”
You may not be near a radio or TV during an actual emergency. To ensure you get the important information in the event of an actual emergency 
sign up for AlertMontereyCounty. AlertMontereyCounty is a system used by City and County public safety officials to deliver emergency notifications to residents and businesses impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster.
AlertMontereyCounty uses the 9-1-1 database to call and deliver a recorded message to all landline phone numbers in a specific geographic area within a City and/or the County. Residents may also be notified on their cell phone, Voice over IP (VoIP) phone or at their email address. Those wishing to receive messages on these devices must register online.
“you may be instructed to…”
In the event of a actual emergency, you may be instructed to stay where you are (shelter in place) or to evacuate. In either case, you want to be prepared. This weekend daylight saving time ends, so after you set your clocks, check your stocks. Is your emergency kit up to date? If you have 
ot created an emergency kit yet, now is the time to create one! (And, as always, don’t forget to check the batteries in your smoke alarms.)
It is important to have at least a three-day supply of bottled water, non-perishable foods, essential medications and comfort items set aside for each member of your family. Do not forget Fluffy and Rover, pets are part of the family too, so include some emergency supplies for them.
Here are some simple steps to take to help you and your loved ones are better prepared:
- Check the expiration dates on your food and water. If needed, cycle it out and replace it.
- Check the expiration date on your medication(s). Be sure your medications in your emergency kit are for current prescriptions and conditions. Don’t forget extra glasses, contact lens solution and hearing aid batteries
- Check to see if the supplies are still appropriate. Is your toddler now a ‘tween? Are there new special dietary needs?
- Change the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
- Check and refresh fire extinguishers.
- Use markers or stickers to note expiration dates on items, so updating is quick and easy.
- Is your emergency contact information and communication plan up to date?
- As part of your kit, it is a good idea to have current pictures of all family members. Update pictures or take new ones.
