Emergency Alert System
 

Looks like the Government is making some TV stations have a mandatory Emergency Alert System test in a bunch of counties in California... This just started I think about a week ago, and the stations have to have another test each week.... but we're totally safe.

Who said we're totally safe?

No one I know of.

TV and Radio stations are required by law to test these things regularly.

Anyway, I think everyone expects another terrorist attack, including me. The war wasn't a short term fix, it is part of a long term strategy that may very well take years if not decades.

Doesn't bother me. I agree that some of the precautions suggested by the Office of Homeland Security have been a bit odd, but as Lebell suggested, testing the emergency broadcast system is normal.

I remember my cartoons being interrupted as a kid with that obnoxious beep and then someone saying:

"This is a test of the Emergency Broadcast System. The broadcasters of your area in voluntary cooperation with the Federal, State and local authorities have developed this system to keep you informed in the event of an emergency. If this had been an actual emergency, (optional -- stations may mention the types of emergencies likely to occurr in their area) the Attention Signal you just heard would have been followed by official information, news or instructions. This station (optional -- insert station call sign) serves the (operational area name) area. This concludes this test of the Emergency Broadcast System."

When is the last time you remember seeing these tests? I wonder if the government is making the west coast television stations have these tests more regularly, because they are anticipating something, such as a terrorist attack. Also, how can anybody insure their safety?

No-ones tested me recently....

i may be out of practice, I may not know to bend down and tuck my face between my knees and kiss my ass goodbye.

As for the West Coast, Is it not N. Korea thats got Nukes..... How I love Palm Beach County!

I live in oklahoma. Right in the center of tornado alley. I grew up with hearing sirens atleast once a week during tornado season (which just started btw) as well as part of summer and fall. I am sure some old farts remember the air ride siren tests of the cold war. Its nothing big. There is nothing wrong with being prepared.