Lessons Learned in Alaska Have Implications for Proposed National EAS Test
In an online webinar yesterday, Manny Centeno, Program Manager for the FEMA IPAWS Program Office, provided an overview of lessons learned from EAS tests conducted in Alaska. These tests were conducted as precursors to a proposed national EAS test expected late this year. A national EAS test has never been conducted.
In an online webinar yesterday, Manny Centeno, Program Manager for the FEMA IPAWS Program Office, provided an overview of lessons learned from EAS tests conducted in Alaska. These tests were conducted as precursors to a proposed national EAS test expected late this year. A national EAS test has never been conducted.
Joining Manny for the webinar was Bryan Fisher, Chief of Operations for the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Together they outlined key findings from two different tests--one held in January of 2010 and the other held January 2011. These tests deployed live Emergency Action Notification (EAN) event codes--the activation codes established for the President to address the nation.
Key lessons learned included:
Testing is Critical
Tests proved that EAS does work as a whole as 81% of EAS participants aired the EAN throughout Alaska. However, improvements can be made as technical issues, minor human errors, and variations in rule interpretations caused some problems. Improving audio quality and reducing "dead air" between segments of the alert were identified as key focus areas based on these tests.
Outreach is Extremely Important
Concerted efforts to educate citizens helped minimize confusion and high call volumes to 9-1-1 during the tests. Tactics such as press releases, interviews and PSAs were utilized. Improvements in 2011 were made over 2010 by allocating more time and resources for public outreach.
Some Procedures/Rules Need Updating
Differences in the interpretation of the FCC's Part 11 rules caused some inconsistencies in operational/technical procedures. These need to be addressed prior to moving forward.
While a definitive date has not been set for the national test, we believe emergency managers should follow this story closely and begin making preparations now. It's not too early (and its in managers' best interest) to solidify relationships with local broadcasters and ponder ways to get the word out to local citizens. We'll keep you posted.
Best regards,
Lorin
