DHS Launches Digital Emergency Alert System Pilot

The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently announced 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.

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 Emergency Alert System (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."