Tech staff flags Emergency Alert System password changes and upcoming FEMA nationwide test

Technology staff briefed the board on compliance work related to the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The staff member said the station must establish long (strong) passwords for EAS and transmitter-control access, and that the commission is requiring these changes by a stated deadline. The staff member indicated they will set up the passwords and share them privately with board members rather than send them by email for security reasons.

The technology report also covered the FEMA National Periodic Test (NPT). Staff reported that FEMA will issue an NPT on Nov. 17 at 11:20 a.m. Pacific time and that stations are required to report whether they received the test within 48 hours; a later report on audio quality typically follows within a month. The staff member said they will configure the station so that others can retrieve the alert box information and file required responses while the primary technician is unavailable.

Board members asked about software updates and whether the station’s gear meets current requirements; staff said the station’s software appears up to date but that they will double-check for any outstanding updates. The board discussed how to store or share the new long passwords securely among operators.