FCC Gears Up for National EAS Test Aug. 11

- Opens EAS Test Reporting System

The FCC has opened the EAS Test Reporting system (ETRS) for broadcasters to renew station information in advance of the next national test of the Emergency Alert System in August.

The commission issued Public Notice (DA 21-680) with more test details on June 11.

The test is scheduled for approximately 1:20 pm CDT on Aug. 11, and the backup test date is Aug. 25.

It will be sent only in English.

Broadcasters will recall the 2018 national test of EAS was delayed by Hurricane Florence and the backup test date was used that year.

The public notice reminds broadcasters that station identifying information must be updated and reviewed annually, hence the need for all EAS participant stations to visit the ETRS site and renew station information contained in ETRS EAS Form One.

Broadcasters have until July 6 to do so.

The FCC and FEMA will be assessing the reliability of the original broadcast “daisy chain” system of EAS relay and this year will not be using the Internet-based IPAWS system of distribution Stations must file the ETRS Form Two “day of test” report following the test, either on Aug. 11 or 12.

EAS Form Three must be filed on or before Sept. 27.

All EAS participants are required to file Form Two and Form Three.

Station staff may direct questions to the following FCC staff: Maureen Bizhko, (202) 418-0011, Maureen.Bizhko@fcc.gov; Rosemary Cabral, (202) 418-0662, Rosemary.Cabral@fcc.gov; or Christina Clearwater (202) 418-1893, Christina.Clearwater@fcc.gov.

Questions? Contact TAB’s Michael Schneider or call (512) 322-9944.