Department Of Homeland Security Launches Digital Emergency Alert System Pilot For The National Capital Region
Alert and Warning Systems to Be Enhanced by High-Speed Wireless Digital Broadcasts

Release Date: October 21, 2004 Release Number: HQ-04-233

Washington, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today the launch of the Digital Emergency Alert System (DEAS) pilot in the National Capital Region. This six-month pilot will demonstrate how Homeland Security can improve public alert and warning during times of national crisis through the use of local public television’s digital television broadcasts.

FEMA’s Office of National Security Coordination serves as the federal government’s executive agent for the national-level Emergency Alert System (EAS). The pilot program is a joint venture among FEMA, Homeland Security’s Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection directorate, and the Association of Public Television Stations.

Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary for Homeland Security Emergency Preparedness and Response said, “This technology will substantially improve Homeland Security’s ability to provide alert and warning accessibility to the hearing and sight impaired, targeted warning messages, and improved public reception by increasing the types of devices that can receive critical alert and all hazards warnings.”

Working with cellular telephone service providers, television and radio broadcasters, hardware and software developers, community leaders and emergency managers, Homeland Security will use this pilot to identify best practices and develop a foundation for deploying DEAS nationally. This system will also supplement and integrate with the existing national EAS.

Reynold N. Hoover, Director of the Office of National Security Coordination said, “With today’s signing, we begin the process of testing and developing the ability to provide a digital backbone that can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Emergency Alert System.”

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.