SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - On November 9th, Illinois radio and TV stations will participate in the first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System. Illinois Emergency Management Agency Director Jonathon Monken says the test will be at 1:00 p.m. for three minutes. Several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will participate in the test. Monken says the alert system is an important tool for providing information during emergencies. He says the nationwide test is ambitious, but critical to testing the system's viability. The test will be similar to those watchers and listeners are familiar with except all broadcast outlets will conduct it simultaneously. The system is available for the U.S. president to address Americans during crises. Authorities can use it to send alerts and warnings to local outlets. 5ONne
