Don't freak out, it's just a test: Nationwide alert set for Wednesday
Don't be alarmed, but on Wednesday around 1:30 p.m., every cell phone in Bartlesville will chime in unison during a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).
In collaboration with the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hopes to validate the efficacy of its latest emergency alert tools in conveying emergency warnings to the public, particularly those of national relevance, according to a statement from FEMA.
What to expect
Cellular devices nationwide will receive an alert and a text message: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed."
Sent in either English or Spanish, the message will also be paired with a unique tone and vibration to ensure accessibility for all, including individuals with disabilities.
Simultaneously, a one-minute emergency test alert will be broadcast on all radios and televisions, stating, "This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public."
Cell towers will broadcast the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) test for approximately 30 minutes. All compatible, powered-on wireless phones within the range of an active cell tower and connected to a carrier participating in WEA tests should receive the message.
The event marks the seventh nationwide test of the EAS and the third of the WEA. However, it is only the second time consumer cellular devices will be included in the WEA test. The prior tests of both systems took place in 2021, while the first EAS test dates back to 2011.
Nanoparticles, COVID and mind control conspiracies
When the federal government announced its nationwide test of emergency alert systems, an array of conspiracy theories sprouted across social media platforms.
Some users suggest that the warning tone will activate "nanoparticles, including graphene oxide," purportedly implanted in citizens' bodies, subjecting them to unspecified "control."
It is crucial to highlight that these claims are unequivocally untrue. Both FEMA and the FCC affirm that the test poses no harm to individuals and is simply a procedural measure to ensure the reliable functionality of the national alert system.
The tests are standard practice and are vital for maintaining and ensuring the preparedness of national alert mechanisms for potential emergent situations.
Hawaii false missile alert
Past incidents have highlighted potential issues with the emergency alert systems. The most notable instance was in Hawaii in 2018 when a state emergency management worker pressed an incorrect button, erroneously alerting residents to an impending ballistic missile threat.
It took 38 minutes for officials to clarify that the message was in error and that there were no missiles headed to the Hawaiian islands. The employee who made the error was fired, according to state officials.
Canadian-American actor and comedian Jim Carrey was living in Hawaii during the incident. The cover of his semi-autobiographical novel, Memoirs and Misinformation, is a photo of Carrey after being told he only had ten minutes to live.
Authorities assure that no action is required from the public in response to Wednesday's test alerts and encourage everyone to continue their activities as usual during and after the test.
This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Be aware: Nationwide alert is set for 1:30 p.m. CT Wednesday
