The national test will go off over televisions, radios, and cell phones at 2:20 pm on October 4.

For cell phone users, you will get an alert stating ”THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” It will include tones and vibration to capture your attention.

A similar message will air on TV and radio from 2:20-2:50 p.m.

Known as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, the federal government tests the alert system every three years to make sure it continues to be an effective way to warn the public about emergencies. This will be only the second time the alert system has tested cell phones.

While Monroe One is not involved with the federal alert system, we wanted to make people aware of the upcoming test so our school community would not have concerns over immediate public safety.

FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, prepared a FAQ to answer questions you may have: IPAWS 2023 National Test FAQs (fema.gov)