FCC Reminds Video Providers to Prep for Aug. 7 EAS Test
Yesterday, the FCC reminded video and cable providers that the 2019 Emergency Alert System (EAS) nationwide test is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7th at 2:20 p.m. EDT. If the test is delayed, the back-up date is August 21st. All analog and digital cable systems, wireless cable systems, wireline video systems, and direct broadcast satellite (DBS) providers must complete the test.
As explained in our June 5 e-Lert, all video providers should have updated their information on Form One in the EAS Test Reporting System (ETRS) by the July 3rd deadline.
After the test, companies are required to submit the success or failure of their EAS test on Form Two by 11:59 p.m. EDT on the day of the test in the ETRS system. After the EAS alert has been issued and Form Two has been completed, you will need to also complete Form Three with the detailed post-test data before September 23rd.
The 2019 test will not use the internet to distribute the EAS message – only the broadcast, daisy-chain system will be used. Companies should validate that they are monitoring the correct broadcast stations listed in their state’s EAS plan. Monitoring the wrong station could result in a failed test.
If you have questions about the EAS national test or would like assistance with completing Form Two or Three, please contact a member of our team by clicking the button below.