The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is asking the public not to become alarmed by today’s planned emergency test which will be aired at 2:00 p.m. EST on all U.S. television and radio stations.

The AFP is reporting that what makes today’s test different is that it is the first time such a test has been run on a national basis. States and local authorities often test their emergency alert system, but they only do so for 30 seconds or one minute. This test of the National EAS (Emergency Action Notification) will last for three minutes and may or may not be preceded by the explanation, “This is a test,” which is causing concern in some quarters.

Some local school and government officials claim there is “great concern in local police and emergency management circles about undue public anxiety over this test,” the AFP reports. “Fear is that the lack of an explanation message might create panic. Please share this information with your family and friends so they are aware of the test.”

The test is being conducted by FEMA in conjunction with the US Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Communications Commission and the National Weather Service. It is part of the Emergency Alert System which is designed to transmit, via TV and radio, emergency alerts and warnings regarding weather threats, child abductions and other types of emergencies, according to officials.

“As we get close to the test, the FCC and all of our many partners are working together to spread the word to as many members of the public as possible — so people know what to expect when the test takes place, and no one is caught off guard,” FEMA says in a blog post.

“We’re asking everyone to join us by spreading the word to your neighbors, co-workers, friends and family — share this web page, post a message on your social media site, and feel free to embed our videos on your website or blog.”

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