So today, ONE WEEK before the "big test" they've made broadcasters jump-through-hoops to be part-of by their mandate, the FCC/FEMA in their infinite wisdom sent out an update:
Similar to local emergency alert system tests, during the nationwide test on November 9, an audio message will interrupt television and radio programming indicating: “This is a test.” The nationwide test will last approximately 30 seconds instead of 2-3 minutes, as originally announced. This change has been made to reduce the disruption to the American public, while still maintaining our ability to test the system’s nationwide capabilities.
I feel totally embarrassed at the FCC and FEMA's handling of this. They've put broadcasters' in a position of looking like total and complete boobs after trying SO hard to educate our individual public audience (be it local AM, FM, TV, Cable, Whatever) to the test and its original plan and to note be alarmed. Now, its so short, the public won't notice at all beyond what a normal weekly test-is, except that it's everywhere. Who else but our government can change the rules with such short notice?
Its obvious without SAYING it, by reading between the lines....that like it has been posted here by some, Public knowledge of this test was near zero, and they ARE worried about scaring the public. Furthermore, every station has to fill out a PRE test form to the FCC (multiple ones if you have more than one station) and TWO MORE after the test! As Colonel Potter used to say on M*A*S*H....."Horse Hockey!" (or another of his favorites.)
Thank you, FCC.