On Wednesday, Nov. 9, the Federal Communications Commission and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System. The EAS test plays a key role in ensuring the nation is prepared for any type of hazard. The test will be conducted at 1 p.m. Central Standard Time (2 p.m. Eastern) and will be transmitted via TV and radio stations across the nation. More information is available from FEMA.