FCC Releases New EAS Handbook, ETRS How-To Videos

posted on 6.28.2021

- Prepping for Aug. 11 National EAS Test

In preparation for the next national test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on Aug. 11, the FCC has published a 2021 EAS Handbook on the FCC’s EAS Test Reporting System (ETRS) website.

Stations should download the new EAS Handbook immediately and discard any previous editions.

The handbook summarizes the actions to be taken by personnel at EAS participant facilities, such as broadcast stations, upon receipt of an emergency alert notification, required monthly or weekly tests, or state and local area alerts.

A copy of the handbook must be located at normal duty positions or EAS equipment locations when an operator is required to be on duty and be immediately available to staff responsible for authenticating messages and initiating actions.

Deadline: July 6 ETRS Form One

The FCC has opened the ETRS for broadcasters to renew station information in advance of the next national EAS test.

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 FCC’s 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 has posted a Form One filing guide and helpful video at the ETRS website.

Station staff may also 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.

Other ETRS deadlines

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. 

The ETRS site includes two videos on accessing these forms which all EAS participants are required to file.

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

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