You may get an emergency test message on your phone or TV on Wednesday. What to know
You may get a message on your phone or other devices this week as the U.S. government tests emergency alert tools.
The test alerts are scheduled to come to cellphones, TVs and radios across the country at about 2:20 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday, Oct. 4. Though there’s no need to take action if you get one of the messages, here’s what officials say to expect.
More about the test alerts
The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it’s partnering with the Federal Communications Commission for the test, which is conducted “at least once every three years.” The latest test should come to cellphones and other wireless devices one time each through the Wireless Emergency Alerts system.
“A WEA alert appears on the screen of the recipient’s handset as a text-like message,” the FCC wrote on its website. “The alert is accompanied by a unique attention signal and vibration, which is particularly helpful to people with hearing or vision-related disabilities.”
Officials said the test alert will be sent to all cellphones in English or Spanish, with wording that indicates it’s part of a test. But you may not receive the message if your device is older, turned off or not connected to cell service.
In addition to the wireless test, the government plans to put out messages through the separate Emergency Alert System. That system “can interrupt radio and television” broadcasts to share details with the public, according to FEMA.
Why is the test happening?
“The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level,” FEMA wrote in a news release.
Outside of the test period, alerts can be used to warn people about missing children, natural disasters and other potential threats. Though cellphone carriers may allow people to block some urgent alerts, the FCC said it “strongly urges the public to stay opted in to receive all these life-saving messages.”
If the emergency alert test has to be rescheduled, the alternate date is Oct. 11.
This story was originally published October 2, 2023 at 3:14 PM.
