[Title 47 CFR 11]
[Code of Federal Regulations (annual edition) - October 1, 2004 Edition]
[Title 47 - TELECOMMUNICATION]
[Chapter I - FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION]
[Subchapter A - GENERAL]
[Part 11 - EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS)]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office]
47TELECOMMUNICATION12004-10-012004-10-01falseEMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS)11PART 11TELECOMMUNICATIONFEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONGENERAL
PART 11_EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS)--Table of Contents
Subpart A_General
Sec.
11.1 Purpose.
11.11 The Emergency Alert System (EAS).
11.12 Two-tone Attention Signal encoder and decoder.
11.13 Emergency Action Notification (EAN) and Emergency Action
Termination (EAT).
11.14 Primary Entry Point (PEP) System.
11.15 EAS Operating Handbook.
11.16 National Control Point Procedures.
11.18 EAS Designations.
11.19 EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.
11.20 State Relay Network.
11.21 State and Local Area Plans and FCC Mapbook.
Subpart B_Equipment Requirements
11.31 EAS protocol.
11.32 EAS Encoder.
11.33 EAS Decoder.
11.34 Acceptability of the equipment.
11.35 Equipment operational readiness.
Subpart C_Organization
11.41 Participation in EAS.
11.42 Participation by communications common carriers.
11.43 National level participation.
11.44 EAS message priorities.
11.45 Prohibition of false or deceptive EAS transmissions.
11.46 EAS public service announcements.
11.47 Optional use of other communications methods and systems.
Subpart D_Emergency Operations
11.51 EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.
11.52 EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements.
11.53 Dissemination of Emergency Action Notification.
11.54 EAS operation during a National Level emergency.
11.55 EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.
Subpart E_Tests
11.61 Tests of EAS procedures.
Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151, 154 (i) and (o), 303(r), 544(g) and 606.
Source: 59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, unless otherwise noted.
Subpart A_General
Sec. 11.1 Purpose.
This part contains rules and regulations providing for an Emergency
Alert System (EAS). The EAS provides the President with the capability
to provide immediate communications and information to the general
public at the National, State and Local Area levels during periods of
national emergency. The rules in this part describe the required
technical standards and operational procedures of the EAS for AM, FM and
TV broadcast stations, cable systems and other participating entities.
The EAS may be used to provide the heads of State and local government,
or their designated representatives, with a means of emergency
communication with the public in their State or Local Area.
[[Page 723]]
Sec. 11.11 The Emergency Alert System (EAS).
(a) The EAS is composed of broadcast networks; cable networks and
program suppliers; AM, FM Low Power FM (LPFM) and TV broadcast stations;
Class A television (CA) stations; Low Power TV (LPTV) stations; cable
systems; wireless cable systems which may consist of Multipoint
Distribution Service (MDS), Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service
(MMDS), or Instructional Television Fixed Service (ITFS) stations; and
other entities and industries operating on an organized basis during
emergencies at the National, State and local levels. It requires that at
a minimum all participants use a common EAS protocol, as defined in
Sec. 11.31, to send and receive emergency alerts in accordance with the
effective dates in the following tables:
Broadcast Stations
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EAS Equipment requirement AM & FM TV FM Class D LPTV \1\ LPFM \2\ Class A TV
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Two-tone encoder \3\ \4\...... Y Y N N N Y
EAS decoder................... Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y Y
EAS encoder................... Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 N N N Y
Audio message................. Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y 1/1/97 Y Y
Video message................. N/A Y 1/1/97 N/A Y 1/1/97 N/A Y
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ LPTV stations that operate as television broadcast translator stations are exempt from the requirement to
have EAS equipment.
\2\ LPFM stations must install a decoder within one year after the FCC publishes in the Federal Register a
public notice indicating that at least one decoder has been certified by the FCC.
\3\ Effective July 1, 1995, the two-tone signal must be 8-25 seconds.
\4\ Effective January 1, 1998, the two-tone signal may only be used to provide audio alerts to audiences before
EAS emergency messages and the required monthly tests.
Cable Systems
[A. Cable systems serving fewer than 5,000 subscribers from a headend must either provide the National level EAS
message on all programmed channels--including the required testing--by October 1, 2002, or comply with the
following EAS requirements. All other cable systems must comply with B.]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
System size and effective dates
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. EAS Equipment Requirement =10,000 =5,000 but <
subscribers 10,000 subscribers <5,000 subscribers
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Two-tone signal from storage device Y 12/31/98 Y 10/1/02 Y 10/1/02
\1\.
EAS decoder \3\.................... Y 12/31/98 Y 10/1/02 Y 10/1/02
EAS encoder \2\.................... Y 12/31/98 Y 10/1/02 Y 10/1/02
Audio and Video EAS Message on all Y 12/31/98 Y 10/1/02 N
channels.
Video interrupt and audio alert N N Y 10/1/02
message on all channels,\3\ Audio
and Video EAS message on at least
one channel.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Two-tone signal is only used to provide an audio alert to audience before EAS emergency messages and
required monthly test. The two-tone signal must be 8-25 seconds in duration.
\2\ Cable systems serving <5,000 subscribers are permitted to operate without an EAS encoder if they install an
FCC-certified decoder.
\3\ The Video interrupt must cause all channels that carry programming to flash for the duration of the EAS
emergency message. The audio alert must give the channel where the EAS messages are carried and be repeated
for the duration of the EAS message.
Note: Programmed channels do not include channels used for the transmission of data such as interactive games.
Wireless Cable Systems (MDS/MMS/ITFS Stations)
[A. Wireless cable systems serving fewer than 5,000 subscribers from a
single transmission site must either provide the National level EAS
message on all programmed channels--including the required testing--by
October 1, 2002, or comply with the following EAS requirements. All
other wireless cable systems must comply with B.]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
System size and effective dates
----------------------------------------
B. EAS Equipment Requirement = 5,000
subscribers < 5,000subscribers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
EAS decoder.................... Y 10/1/02 Y 10/1/02
EAS encoder \1\ \2\............ Y 10/1/02 Y 10/1/02
Audio and Video EAS Message on Y 10/1/02 N
all channels.
Video interrupt and audio alert N Y 10/1/02
message on all channels; \3\
Audio and Video EAS message on
at least one channel.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Two-tone signal is only used to provide an audio alert to audience
before EAS emergency messages and required monthly test. The two-tone
signal must be 8-25 seconds in duration.
[[Page 724]]
\2\ Wireless cable systems serving <5,000 subscribers are permitted to
operate without an EAS encoder if they install an FCC-certified
decoder.
\3\ The Video interrupt must cause all channels that carry programming
to flash for the duration of the EAS emergency message. The audio
alert must give the channel where the EAS messages are carried and be
repeated for the duration of the EAS message.
Note: Programmed channels do not include channels used for the
transmission of data services such as Internet.
(b) Class D non-commercial educational FM stations as defined in
Sec. 73.506, LPFM stations as defined in Sec. Sec. 73.811 and 73.853,
and LPTV stations as defined in Sec. 74.701(f) are not required to
comply with Sec. 11.32. LPTV stations that operate as television
broadcast translator stations, as defined in Sec. 74.701(b) of this
chapter, are not required to comply with the requirements of this part.
FM broadcast booster stations as defined in Sec. 74.1201(f) of this
chapter and FM translator stations as defined in Sec. 74.1201(a) of
this chapter which entirely rebroadcast the programming of other local
FM broadcast stations are not required to comply with the requirements
of this part. International broadcast stations as defined in Sec.
73.701 of this chapter are not required to comply with the requirements
of this part. Broadcast stations that operate as satellites or repeaters
of a hub station (or common studio or control point if there is no hub
station) and rebroadcast 100% of the programming of the hub station (or
common studio or control point) may satisfy the requirements of this
part through the use of a single set of EAS equipment at the hub station
(or common studio or control point) which complies with Sec. Sec. 11.32
and 11.33.
(c) For purposes of the EAS, Multipoint Distribution Service (MDS)
and Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (MMDS) stations
operated in accordance with subpart K of part 21 of this chapter and
Instructional Television Fixed Service (ITFS) stations operated as part
of wireless cable systems in accordance with subpart I of part 74 of
this chapter are defined as follows:
(1) A ``wireless cable system'' is a collection of channels in the
MDS, MMDS, or ITFS used to provide video programming services to
subscribers. The channels may be licensed to or leased by the wireless
cable system operator.
(2) A ``wireless cable operator'' is the entity that has acquired
the right to use the channels of a wireless cable system for
transmission of programming to subscribers.
(d) Local franchise authorities and cable television system
operators may enter into mutual agreements that require the installation
of EAS equipment before the required dates listed in the tables in
paragraph (a). Additionally, local franchise authorities may use any EAS
codes authorized by the FCC in any agreements.
(e) Organizations using other communications systems or technologies
such as, Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS), low earth orbit satellite
systems, paging, computer networks, etc. may join the EAS on a voluntary
basis by contacting the FCC. Organizations that choose to voluntarily
participate must comply with the requirements of this part.
[63 FR 29662, June 1, 1998, as amended at 65 FR 7639, Feb. 15, 2000; 65
FR 21657, Apr. 24, 2000; 65 FR 30001, May 10, 2000; 65 FR 34406, May 30,
2000; 67 FR 18506, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.12 Two-tone Attention Signal encoder and decoder.
Existing two-tone Attention Signal encoder and decoder equipment
type accepted for use as Emergency Broadcast System equipment under part
73 of this chapter may be used by broadcast stations until January 1,
1998, provided that such equipment meets the requirements of Sec.
11.32(a)(9) and 11.33(b). Effective January 1, 1998, the two-tone
Attention Signal decoder will no longer be required and the two-tone
Attention Signal will be used to provide an audio alert.
[60 FR 55999, Nov. 6, 1995]
Sec. 11.13 Emergency Action Notification (EAN) and Emergency Action
Termination (EAT).
(a) The Emergency Action Notification (EAN) is the notice to all
broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems, other
regulated
[[Page 725]]
services of the FCC, participating industry entities, and to the general
public that the EAS has been activated for a national emergency.
(b) The Emergency Action Termination (EAT) is the notice to all
broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems, other
regulated services of the FCC, participating industry entities, and to
the general public that the EAN has terminated.
[63 FR 29663, June 1, 1998]
Sec. 11.14 Primary Entry Point (PEP) System.
The PEP system is a nationwide network of broadcast stations and
other entities connected with government activation points. It is used
to distribute the EAN, EAT and EAS national test messages, and other EAS
messages.
[67 FR 18507, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.15 EAS Operating Handbook.
The EAS Operating Handbook states in summary form the actions to be
taken by personnel at broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless
cable systems, and other participating entities upon receipt of an EAN,
an EAT, tests, or State and Local Area alerts. It is issued by the FCC
and contains instructions for the above situations. A copy of the
Handbook must be located at normal duty positions or EAS equipment
locations when an operator is required to be on duty and be immediately
available to staff responsible for authenticating messages and
initiating actions.
[63 FR 29663, June 1, 1998]
Sec. 11.16 National Control Point Procedures.
The National Control Point Procedures are written instructions
issued by the FCC to national level EAS control points. The procedures
are divided into sections as follows:
(a) National Level EAS Activation. This section contains the
activation and termination instructions for Presidential messages.
(b) EAS Test Transmissions. This section contains the instructions
for testing the EAS at the National level.
(c) National Information Center (NIC). This section contains
instructions for distributing United States Government official
information messages after completion of the National Level EAS
activation and termination actions.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 67 FR 18508, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.18 EAS Designations.
(a) National Primary (NP) is a source of EAS Presidential messages.
(b) Local Primary (LP) is a source of EAS Local Area messages. An LP
source is responsible for coordinating the carriage of common emergency
messages from sources such as the National Weather Service or local
emergency management offices as specified in its EAS Local Area Plan. If
it is unable to carry out this function, other LP sources in the Local
Area may be assigned the responsibility as indicated in State and Local
Area Plans. LP sources are assigned numbers (LP-1, 2, 3, etc.) in the
sequence they are to be monitored by other broadcast stations in the
Local Area.
(c) State Primary (SP) is a source of EAS State messages. These
messages can originate from the Governor or a designated representative
in the State Emergency Operating Center (EOC) or State Capital. Messages
are sent via the State Relay Network.
(d) State Relay (SR) is a source of EAS State messages. It is part
of the State Relay Network and relays National and State common
emergency messages into Local Areas.
(e) Participating National (PN) sources transmit EAS National, State
or Local Area messages. The EAS transmissions of PN sources are intended
for direct public reception.
(f) Non-participating National (NN) sources have elected not to
participate in the National level EAS and hold an authorization letter
to that effect. Upon activation of the national level EAS, NN sources
are required to broadcast the EAS codes, Attention Signal, the sign-off
announcement in the EAS Operating Handbook and then stop operating. All
NN sources are required to comply with Sec. 11.51, 11.52 and 11.61.
They may transmit EAS State or Local Area messages at any time without
prior notice.
[[Page 726]]
Sec. 11.19 EAS Non-participating National Authorization Letter.
This authorization letter is issued by the FCC to broadcast station
licensees and cable systems and wireless cable systems. It states that
the licensee, cable operator or wireless cable operator has agreed to go
off the air or in the case of cable discontinue programming on all
channels during a national level EAS message. For Broadcast licensees
this authorization will remain in effect through the period of the
initial license and subsequent renewals from the time of issuance unless
returned by the holder or suspended, modified or withdrawn by the
Commission.
[63 FR 29663, June 1, 1998]
Sec. 11.20 State Relay Network.
This network is composed of State Relay (SR) sources, leased common
carrier communications facilities or any other available communication
facilities. The network distributes State EAS messages originated by the
Governor or designated official. In addition to EAS monitoring,
satellites, microwave, FM subcarrier or any other communications
technology may be used to distribute State emergency messages.
Sec. 11.21 State and Local Area Plans and FCC Mapbook.
EAS plans contain guidelines which must be followed by broadcast and
cable personnel, emergency officials and National Weather Service (NWS)
personnel to activate the EAS. The plans include the EAS header codes
and messages that will be transmitted by key EAS sources (NP, LP, SP and
SR). State and local plans contain unique methods of EAS message
distribution such as the use of RBDS. The plans must be reviewed and
approved by the Director, Office of Homeland Security, Enforcement
Bureau, prior to implementation to ensure that they are consistent with
national plans, FCC regulations, and EAS operation.
(a) The State plan contains procedures for State emergency
management and other State officials, the NWS, and broadcast and cable
personnel to transmit emergency information to the public during a State
emergency using the EAS.
(b) The Local Area plan contains procedures for local officials or
the NWS to transmit emergency information to the public during a local
emergency using the EAS. Local plans may be a part of the State plan. A
Local Area is a geographical area of contiguous communities or counties
that may include more than one state.
(c) The FCC Mapbook is based on the above plans. It organizes all
broadcast stations and cable systems according to their State, EAS Local
Area and EAS designation.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 55999, Nov. 6, 1995; 63
FR 29663, June 1, 1998; 65 FR 21658, Apr. 24, 2000; 69 FR 30234, May 27,
2004]
Subpart B_Equipment Requirements
Sec. 11.31 EAS protocol.
(a) The EAS uses a four part message for an emergency activation of
the EAS. The four parts are: Preamble and EAS Header Codes; audio
Attention Signal; message; and, Preamble and EAS End Of Message (EOM)
Codes.
(1) The Preamble and EAS Codes must use Audio Frequency Shift Keying
at a rate of 520.83 bits per second to transmit the codes. Mark
frequency is 2083.3 Hz and space frequency is 1562.5 Hz. Mark and space
time must be 1.92 milliseconds. Characters are ASCII seven bit
characters as defined in ANSI X3.4-1977 ending with an eighth null bit
(either 0 or 1) to constitute a full eight-bit byte.
(2) The Attention Signal must be made up of the fundamental
frequencies of 853 and 960 Hz. The two tones must be transmitted
simultaneously. The Attention Signal must be transmitted after the EAS
header codes.
(3) The message may be audio, video or text.
(b) The ASCII dash and plus symbols are required and may not be used
for any other purpose. FM or TV call signs must use a slash ASCII
character number 47 (/) in lieu of a dash.
(c) The EAS protocol, including any codes, must not be amended,
extended or abridged without FCC authorization.
[[Page 727]]
The EAS protocol and message format are specified in the following
representation.
Examples are provided in FCC Public Notices.
[PREAMBLE]ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT-JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE]ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT-JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-(one second pause)
[PREAMBLE]ZCZC-ORG-EEE-PSSCCC+TTTT-JJJHHMM-LLLLLLLL-(at least a one
second pause)
(transmission of 8 to 25 seconds of Attention Signal)
(transmission of audio, video or text messages)
(at least a one second pause)
[PREAMBLE]NNNN (one second pause)
[PREAMBLE]NNNN (one second pause)
[PREAMBLE]NNNN (at least one second pause)
[PREAMBLE] This is a consecutive string of bits (sixteen bytes of AB
hexadecimal [8 bit byte 10101011]) sent to clear the system, set AGC and
set asynchronous decoder clocking cycles. The preamble must be
transmitted before each header and End Of Message code.
ZCZC--This is the identifier, sent as ASCII characters ZCZC to
indicate the start of ASCII code.
ORG--This is the Originator code and indicates who originally
initiated the activation of the EAS. These codes are specified in
paragraph (d) of this section.
EEE--This is the Event code and indicates the nature of the EAS
activation. The codes are specified in paragraph (e) of this section.
The Event codes must be compatible with the codes used by the NWS
Weather Radio Specific Area Message Encoder (WRSAME).
PSSCCC--This the Location code and indicates the geographic area
affected by the EAS alert. There may be 31 Location codes in an EAS
alert. The Location code uses the Federal Information Processing
Standard (FIPS) numbers as described by the U.S. Department of Commerce
in National Institute of Standards and Technology publication FIPS PUB
6-4. Each state is assigned an SS number as specified in paragraph (f)
of this section. Each county and some cities are assigned a CCC number.
A CCC number of 000 refers to an entire State or Territory. P defines
county subdivisions as follows: 0 = all or an unspecified portion of a
county, 1 = Northwest, 2 = North, 3 = Northeast, 4 = West, 5 = Central,
6 = East, 7 = Southwest, 8 = South, 9 = Southeast. Other numbers may be
designated later for special applications. The use of county
subdivisions will probably be rare and generally for oddly shaped or
unusually large counties. Any subdivisions must be defined and agreed to
by the local officials prior to use.
+TTTT--This indicates the valid time period of a message in 15
minute segments up to one hour and then in 30 minute segments beyond one
hour; i.e., +0015, +0030, +0045, +0100, +0430 and +0600.
JJJHHMM--This is the day in Julian Calendar days (JJJ) of the year
and the time in hours and minutes (HHMM) when the message was initially
released by the originator using 24 hour Universal Coordinated Time
(UTC).
LLLLLLLL--This is the identification of the broadcast station, cable
system, MDS/MMDS/ITFS station, NWS office, etc., transmitting or
retransmitting the message. These codes will be automatically affixed to
all outgoing messages by the EAS encoder.
NNNN--This is the End of Message (EOM) code sent as a string of four
ASCII N characters.
(d) The only originator codes are:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originator ORG Code
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broadcast station or cable system............. EAS
Civil authorities............................. CIV
National Weather Service...................... WXR
Primary Entry Point System.................... PEP
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(e) The following Event (EEE) codes are presently authorized:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nature of Activation Event Codes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Codes (Required):
Emergency Action Notification (National only). EAN
Emergency Action Termination (National only).. EAT
National Information Center................... NIC
National Periodic Test........................ NPT
Required Monthly Test......................... RMT
Required Weekly Test.......................... RWT
State and Local Codes (Optional):
Administrative Message........................ ADR
Avalanche Warning............................. AVW\1\
Avalanche Watch............................... AVA\1\
Blizzard Warning.............................. BZW
Child Abduction Emergency..................... CAE\1\
Civil Danger Warning.......................... CDW\1\
Civil Emergency Message....................... CEM
Coastal Flood Warning......................... CFW\1\
Coastal Flood Watch........................... CFA\1\
Dust Storm Warning............................ DSW\1\
Earthquake Warning............................ EQW\1\
Evacuation Immediate.......................... EVI
Fire Warning.................................. FRW\1\
Flash Flood Warning........................... FFW
Flash Flood Watch............................. FFA
Flash Flood Statement......................... FFS
Flood Warning................................. FLW
Flood Watch................................... FLA
Flood Statement............................... FLS
Hazardous Materials Warning................... HMW\1\
High Wind Warning............................. HWW
High Wind Watch............................... HWA
Hurricane Warning............................. HUW
Hurricane Watch............................... HUA
Hurricane Statement........................... HLS
Law Enforcement Warning....................... LEW\1\
[[Page 728]]
Local Area Emergency.......................... LAE\1\
Network Message Notification.................. NMN\1\
911 Telephone Outage Emergency................ TOE\1\
Nuclear Power Plant Warning................... NUW\1\
Practice/Demo Warning......................... DMO
Radiological Hazard Warning................... RHW\1\
Severe Thunderstorm Warning................... SVR
Severe Thunderstorm Watch..................... SVA
Severe Weather Statement...................... SVS
Shelter in Place Warning...................... SPW\1\
Special Marine Warning........................ SMW\1\
Special Weather Statement..................... SPS
Tornado Warning............................... TOR
Tornado Watch................................. TOA
Tropical Storm Warning........................ TRW\1\
Tropical Storm Watch.......................... TRA\1\
Tsunami Warning............................... TSW
Tsunami Watch................................. TSA
Volcano Warning............................... VOW\1\
Winter Storm Warning.......................... WSW
Winter Storm Watch............................ WSA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Effective May 16, 2002, broadcast stations, cable systems and
wireless cable systems may upgrade their existing EAS equipment to add
these event codes on a voluntary basis until the equipment is
replaced. All models of EAS equipment manufactured after August 1,
2003 must be capable of receiving and transmitting these event codes.
Broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems which
replace their EAS equipment after February 1, 2004 must install
equipment that is capable of receiving and transmitting these event
codes.
(f) The State, Territory and Offshore (Marine Area) FIPS number
codes (SS) are as follows. County FIPS numbers (CCC) are contained in
the State EAS Mapbook.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIPS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
State:
AL..................................................... 01
AK..................................................... 02
AZ..................................................... 04
AR..................................................... 05
CA..................................................... 06
CO..................................................... 08
CT..................................................... 09
DE..................................................... 10
DC..................................................... 11
FL..................................................... 12
GA..................................................... 13
HI..................................................... 15
ID..................................................... 16
IL..................................................... 17
IN..................................................... 18
IA..................................................... 19
KS..................................................... 20
KY..................................................... 21
LA..................................................... 22
ME..................................................... 23
MD..................................................... 24
MA..................................................... 25
MI..................................................... 26
MN..................................................... 27
MS..................................................... 28
MO..................................................... 29
MT..................................................... 30
NE..................................................... 31
NV..................................................... 32
NH..................................................... 33
NJ..................................................... 34
NM..................................................... 35
NY..................................................... 36
NC..................................................... 37
ND..................................................... 38
OH..................................................... 39
OK..................................................... 40
OR..................................................... 41
PA..................................................... 42
RI..................................................... 44
SC..................................................... 45
SD..................................................... 46
TN..................................................... 47
TX..................................................... 48
UT..................................................... 49
VT..................................................... 50
VA..................................................... 51
WA..................................................... 53
WV..................................................... 54
WI..................................................... 55
WY..................................................... 56
Terr.:
AS..................................................... 60
FM..................................................... 64
GU..................................................... 66
MH..................................................... 68
MH..................................................... 68
PR..................................................... 72
PW..................................................... 70
UM..................................................... 74
VI..................................................... 78
Offshore (Marine Areas) \1\:
Eastern North Pacific Ocean, and along U.S. West Coast 57
from Canadian border to Mexican border................
North Pacific Ocean near Alaska, and along Alaska 58
coastline, including the Bering Sea and the Gulf of
Alaska................................................
Central Pacific Ocean, including Hawaiian waters....... 59
South Central Pacific Ocean, including American Samoa 61
waters................................................
Western Pacific Ocean, including Mariana Island waters. 65
Western North Atlantic Ocean, and along U.S. East 73
Coast, from Canadian border south to Currituck Beach
Light, N.C............................................
Western North Atlantic Ocean, and along U.S. East 75
Coast, south of Currituck Beach Light, N.C., following
the coastline into Gulf of Mexico to Bonita Beach,
FL., including the Caribbean..........................
Gulf of Mexico, and along the U.S. Gulf Coast from the 77
Mexican border to Bonita Beach, FL....................
Lake Superior.......................................... 91
Lake Michigan.......................................... 92
Lake Huron............................................. 93
Lake St. Clair......................................... 94
Lake Erie.............................................. 96
Lake Ontario........................................... 97
St. Lawrence River above St. Regis..................... 98
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Effective May 16, 2002, broadcast stations, cable systems and
wireless cable systems may upgrade their existing EAS equipment to add
these marine area location codes on a voluntary basis until the
equipment is replaced. All models of EAS equipment manufactured after
August 1, 2003, must be capable of receiving and transmitting these
marine area location codes. Broadcast stations, cable systems and
wireless cable systems which replace their EAS equipment after
February 1, 2004, must install equipment that is capable of receiving
and transmitting these location codes.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 55999, Nov. 6, 1995; 61
FR 54952, Oct. 23, 1996; 63 FR 29663, June 1, 1998; 67 FR 18508, Apr.
16, 2002; 67 FR 77174, Dec. 17, 2002]
[[Page 729]]
Sec. 11.32 EAS Encoder.
(a) EAS Encoders must at a minimum be capable of encoding the EAS
protocol described in Sec. 11.31 and providing the EAS code
transmission requirements described in Sec. 11.51. EAS encoders must
additionally provide the following minimum specifications:
(1) Encoder programming. Access to encoder programming shall be
protected by a lock or other security measures and be configured so that
authorized personnel can readily select and program the EAS Encoder with
Originator, Event and Location codes for either manual or automatic
operation.
(2) Inputs. The encoder shall have two inputs, one for audio
messages and one for data messages (RS-232C with standard protocol and
1200 baud rate).
(3) Outputs. The encoder shall have two outputs, one audio port and
one data port (RS-232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate).
(4) Calibration. EAS Encoders must provide a means to comply with
the modulation levels required in Sec. 11.51(f).
(5) Day-Hour-Minute and Identification Stamps. The encoder shall
affix the JJJHHMM and LLLLLLLL codes automatically to all initial
messages.
(6) Program Data Retention. Program data and codes shall be retained
even with the power removed.
(7) Indicator. An aural or visible means that it activated when the
Preamble is sent and deactivated at the End of Message code.
(8) Spurious Response. All frequency components outside 200 to 4000
Hz shall be attenuated by 40 dB or more with respect to the output
levels of the mark or space frequencies.
(9) Attention Signal generator. The encoder must provide an
attention signal that complies with the following:
(i) Tone Frequencies. The audio tones shall have fundamental
frequencies of 853 and 960 Hz and not vary over 0.5 Hz.
(ii) Harmonic Distortion. The total harmonic distortion of each of
the audio tones may not exceed 5% at the encoder output terminals.
(iii) Minimum Level of Output. The encoder shall have an output
level capability of at least +8 dBm into a 600 Ohm load impedance at
each audio tone. A means shall be provided to permit individual
activation of the two tones for calibration of associated systems.
(iv) Time Period for Transmission of Tones. The encoder shall have
timing circuitry that automatically generates the two tones
simultaneously for a time period of not less than 8 nor longer than 25
seconds. NOTE: Prior to July 1, 1995, the Attention Signal must be at
least 20 and not more than 25 seconds.
(v) Inadvertent activation. The switch used for initiating the
automatic generation of the simultaneous tones shall be protected to
prevent accidental operation.
(vi) Indicator Display. The encoder shall be provided with a visual
and/or aural indicator which clearly shows that the Attention Signal is
activated.
(b) Operating Temperature and Humidity. Encoders shall have the
ability to operate with the above specifications within an ambient
temperature range of 0 to +50 degrees C and a range of relative humidity
of up to 95%.
(c) Primary Supply Voltage Variation. Encoders shall be capable of
complying with the requirements of this section during a variation in
primary supply voltage of 85 percent to 115 percent of its rated value.
(d) Testing Encoder Units. Encoders not covered by Sec. 11.34(e) of
this part shall be tested in a 10 V/m minimum RF field at an AM
broadcast frequency and a 0.5 V/m minimum RF field at an FM or TV
broadcast frequency to simulate actual working conditions.
Sec. 11.33 EAS Decoder.
(a) An EAS Decoder must at a minimum be capable of decoding the EAS
protocol described in Sec. 11.31, provide the EAS monitoring functions
described in Sec. 11.52, and the following minimum specifications:
(1) Inputs. Decoders must have the capability to receive at least 2
audio inputs from EAS monitoring assignments, and one data input (RS-
232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate). The data input may be
used to monitor other communications modes such as Radio Broadcast Data
System (RBDS), NWR, satellite, public switched telephone network, or any
[[Page 730]]
other source that uses the EAS protocol.
(2) Valid codes. There must be a means to determine if valid EAS
header codes are received and to determine if preselected header codes
are received.
(3) Storage. Decoders must provide the means to:
(i) Record and store, either internally or externally, at least two
minutes of audio or text messages. A decoder manufactured without an
internal means to record and store audio or text must be equipped with a
means (such as an audio or digital jack connection) to couple to an
external recording and storing device.
(ii) Store at least ten preselected event and originator header
codes, in addition to the seven mandatory event/originator codes for
tests and national activations, and store any preselected location codes
for comparison with incoming header codes. A non-preselected header code
that is manually transmitted must be stored for comparison with later
incoming header codes. The header codes of the last ten received valid
messages which still have valid time periods must be stored for
comparison with the incoming valid header codes for later messages.
These last received header codes will be deleted from storage as their
valid time periods expire.
(4) Display and logging. A visual message shall be developed from
any valid header codes for tests and national activations and any
preselected header codes received. The message shall include the
Originator, Event, Location, the valid time period of the message and
the local time the message was transmitted. The message shall be in the
primary language of the broadcast station or cable system and be fully
displayed on the decoder and readable in normal light and darkness. All
existing and new models of EAS decoders manufactured after August 1,
2003 must provide a means to permit the selective display and logging of
EAS messages containing header codes for state and local EAS events.
Effective May 16, 2002, broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless
cable systems may upgrade their decoders on an optional basis to include
a selective display and logging capability for EAS messages containing
header codes for state and local events. Broadcast stations, cable
systems and wireless cable systems which replace their decoders after
February 1, 2004 must install decoders that provide a means to permit
the selective display and logging of EAS messages containing header
codes for state and local EAS events.
(5) Indicators. EAS decoders must have a distinct and separate aural
or visible means to indicate when any of the following conditions
occurs:
(i) Any valid EAS header codes are received as specified in Sec.
11.33(a)(10).
(ii) Preprogrammed header codes, such as those selected in
accordance with Sec. 11.52(d)(2) are received.
(iii) A signal is present at each audio input that is specified in
Sec. 11.33(a)(1).
(6) Program Data Retention. The program data must be retained even
with power removed.
(7) Outputs. Decoders shall have the following outputs: a data port
or ports (RS-232C with standard protocol and 1200 baud rate) where
received valid EAS header codes and received preselected header codes
are available; one audio port that is capable of monitoring each decoder
audio input; and, an internal speaker to enable personnel to hear audio
from each input.
(8) Decoder Programming. Access to decoder programming shall be
protected by a lock or other security measures and be configured so that
authorized personnel can readily select and program the EAS Decoder with
preselected Originator, Event and Location codes for either manual or
automatic operation.
(9) Reset. There shall be a method to automatically or manually
reset the decoder to the normal monitoring condition. Operators shall be
able to select a time interval, not less than two minutes, in which the
decoder would automatically reset if it received an EAS header code but
not an end-of-message (EOM) code. Messages received with the EAN Event
codes shall disable the reset function so that lengthy audio messages
can be handled. The last message received with valid header codes shall
be displayed as required by paragraph (a)(4) of this section before the
decoder is reset.
[[Page 731]]
(10) Message Validity. An EAS Decoder must provide error detection
and validation of the header codes of each message to ascertain if the
message is valid. Header code comparisons may be accomplished through
the use of a bit-by-bit compare or any other error detection and
validation protocol. A header code must only be considered valid when
two of the three headers match exactly. Duplicate messages must not be
relayed automatically.
(11) A header code with the EAN Event code specified in Sec.
11.31(c) that is received through any of the audio inputs must override
all other messages.
(b) Attention Signal. EAS Decoders at broadcast stations shall have
detection and activation circuitry that will demute a receiver upon
detection of the two audio tones of 853 Hz and 960 Hz. To prevent false
responses, decoders designed to use the two tones for broadcast receiver
demuting shall comply with the following:
(1) Time Delay. A minimum time delay of 8 but not more than 16
seconds of tone reception shall be incorporated into the demuting or
activation process to insure that the tones will be audible for a period
of at least 4 seconds. After July 1, 1995, the time delay shall be 3-4
seconds.
(2) Operation Bandwidth. The decoder circuitry shall not respond to
tones which vary more than 5 Hz from each of the
frequencies, 853 Hz and 960 Hz.
(3) Reset Ability. The decoder shall have a means to manually or
automatically reset the associated broadcast receiver to a muted state.
(c) Decoders shall be capable of operation within the tolerances
specified in this section as well as those in Sec. 11.32 (b), (c) and
(d).
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 55999, Nov. 6, 1995; 67
FR 18510, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.34 Acceptability of the equipment.
(a) An EAS Encoder used for generating the EAS codes and the
Attention Signal must be Certified in accordance with the procedures in
part 2, subpart J, of this chapter. The data and information submitted
must show the capability of the equipment to meet the requirements of
this part as well as the requirements contained in part 15 of this
chapter for digital devices.
(b) Decoders used for the detection of the EAS codes and receiving
the Attention Signal must be Certified in accordance with the procedures
in part 2, subpart J, of this chapter. The data and information
submitted must show the capability of the equipment to meet the
requirements of this part as well as the requirements contained in part
15 of this chapter for digital devices.
(c) The functions of the EAS decoder, Attention Signal generator and
receiver, and the EAS encoder specified in Sec. Sec. 11.31, 11.32 and
11.33 may be combined and Certified as a single unit provided that the
unit complies with all specifications in this rule section.
(d) Manufacturers must include instructions and information on how
to install, operate and program an EAS Encoder, EAS Decoder, or combined
unit and a list of all State and county FIPS numbers with each unit sold
or marketed in the U.S.
(e) Waiver requests of the Certification requirements for EAS
Encoders or EAS Decoders which are constructed for use at a broadcast
station or subject cable system, but are not offered for sale will be
considered on an individual basis in accordance with part 1, subpart G,
of this chapter.
(f) Modifications to existing authorized EAS decoders, encoders or
combined units necessary to implement the new EAS codes specified in
Sec. 11.31 and to implement the selective displaying and logging
feature specified in Sec. 11.33(a)(4) will be considered Class I
permissive changes that do not require a new application for and grant
of equipment certification under part 2, subpart J of this chapter.
(g) All existing and new models of EAS encoders, decoders and
combined units manufactured after August 1, 2003 must be capable of
generating and detecting the new EAS codes specified in Sec. 11.31 in
order to be certified under part 2, subpart J of this chapter. All
existing and new models of EAS decoders and combined units manufactured
after August 1, 2003 must have the selective displaying and logging
capability specified in Sec. 11.33(a)(4) in order
[[Page 732]]
to be certified under part 2, subpart J of this chapter.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 56000, Nov. 6, 1995; 67
FR 18510, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.35 Equipment operational readiness.
(a) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
are responsible for ensuring that EAS Encoders, EAS Decoders and
Attention Signal generating and receiving equipment used as part of the
EAS are installed so that the monitoring and transmitting functions are
available during the times the stations and systems are in operation.
Additionally, broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable
systems must determine the cause of any failure to receive the required
tests or activations specified in Sec. Sec. 11.61(a) (1) and (2).
Appropriate entries must be made in the broadcast station log as
specified in Sec. 73.1820 and Sec. 73.1840 of this chapter, cable
system record as specified in Sec. Sec. 76.1700, 76.1708, and 76.1711
of this chapter, MDS/MMDS station records as specified in Sec. 21.304
of this chapter, indicating reasons why any tests were not received.
(b) If the EAS Encoder or EAS Decoder becomes defective, the
broadcast station, cable system or wireless cable system may operate
without the defective equipment pending its repair or replacement for 60
days without further FCC authority. Entries shall be made in the
broadcast station log, cable system or wireless cable system station
records showing the date and time the equipment was removed and restored
to service. For personnel training purposes, the required monthly test
script must still be transmitted even though the equipment for
generating the EAS message codes, Attention Signal and EOM code is not
functioning.
(c) If repair or replacement of defective equipment is not completed
within 60 days, an informal request shall be submitted to the District
Director of the FCC field office serving the area in which the broadcast
station, cable system or wireless cable system is located for additional
time to repair the defective equipment. This request must explain what
steps have been taken to repair or replace the defective equipment, the
alternative procedures being used while the defective equipment is out
of service, and when the defective equipment will be repaired or
replaced.
[63 FR 29664, June 1, 1998, as amended at 65 FR 53614, Sept. 5, 2000]
Subpart C_Organization
Sec. 11.41 Participation in EAS.
(a) All broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable
systems specified in Sec. 11.11 are categorized as Participating
National (PN) sources unless authorized by the FCC to be a Non-
Participating (NN) sources.
(b) A broadcast station and cable system and wireless cable system
may submit a written request to the FCC asking to be a Non-Participating
National (NN) source. The FCC may then issue a Non-participating
National Authorization letter. NN sources must go off the air during a
national EAS activation after transmitting specified information.
(1) A station or system that is a Non-participating National (NN)
source under Sec. 11.18(f) that wants to become a Participating
National (PN) source in the national level EAS must submit a written
request to the FCC.
(2) NN sources may voluntarily participate in the State and Local
Area EAS. Participation is at the discretion of broadcast station and
cable system and wireless cable system management and should comply with
State and Local Area EAS Plans.
(c) All sources, including NN, must have immediate access to an
Operating Handbook. They should contact the FCC to ensure that they are
on the FCC EAS mailing list.
[63 FR 29664, June 1, 1998, as amended at 65 FR 21658, Apr. 24, 2000]
Sec. 11.42 Participation by communications common carriers.
(a) During activation of the National level EAS, communications
common carriers which have facilities available in place may, without
charge, connect:
(1) An originating source from the nearest service area to a
selected Test Center and then to the radio and television broadcast
networks, and cable networks and program suppliers for the
[[Page 733]]
duration of the emergency, provided an Emergency Action Notification is
issued by the White House and the originating source has a local channel
from the originating point to the nearest service area.
(2) An independent broadcast station to the radio and television
broadcast networks, and cable networks and program suppliers provided
the station has in service a local channel from the station's studio or
transmitter directly to the broadcast source.
(b) Upon receipt of the Emergency Action Termination, the common
carriers shall disconnect the originating source and the participating
independent stations and restore the networks and program suppliers to
their original configurations.
(c) During a National level EAS Test, common carriers which have
facilities in place may, without charge, connect an originating source
from the nearest exchange to a selected Test Center and then to any
participating radio networks, television networks and cable networks and
program suppliers. Independent stations will not be connected during the
test unless authorized by the FCC. Upon test termination, participants
shall be restored to their original configurations.
(d) A common carrier rendering free service shall file with the FCC,
on or before July 31st and January 31st of each year, reports covering
the six months ending on June 30th and December 31st respectively. These
reports shall state what free service was rendered under this rule and
the charges in dollars which would have accrued to the carrier for this
service if charges had been collected at the published tariff rates if
such carriers are required to file tariffs.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 67 FR 18510, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.43 National level participation.
Entities that wish to voluntarily participate in the national level
EAS may submit a written request to the Director, Office of Homeland
Security, Enforcement Bureau.
[69 FR 30234, May 27, 2004]
Sec. 11.44 EAS message priorities.
(a) A national activation of the EAS for a Presidential message with
the Event code EAN as specified in Sec. 11.31 must take priority over
any other message and preempt it if it is in progress.
(b) EAS participants should transmit other EAS messages in the
following order: first, Local Area Messages; second, State Messages; and
third, National Information Center (NIC) Messages.
(c) Key EAS sources (NP, LP, SP and SR) and Participating National
(PN) sources that remain on the air during a National emergency must
carry Presidential Messages ``live'' at the time of transmission or
immediately upon receipt. Activation of the National level EAS must
preempt State and Local Area EAS operation.
(d) During a national emergency, the radio and television broadcast
network program distribution facilities must be reserved exclusively for
distribution of Presidential Messages. NIC messages received from
national networks which are not broadcast at the time of original
transmission must be recorded locally by LP sources for transmission at
the earliest opportunity consistent with the message priorities in
paragraph (b) of this section.
Sec. 11.45 Prohibition of false or deceptive EAS transmissions.
No person may transmit or cause to transmit the EAS codes or
Attention Signal, or a recording or simulation thereof, in any
circumstance other than in an actual National, State or Local Area
emergency or authorized test of the EAS. Broadcast station licensees
should also refer to Sec. 73.1217 of this chapter.
Sec. 11.46 EAS public service announcements.
Broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems may use
Public Service Announcements or obtain commercial sponsors for
announcements, infomercials, or programs explaining the EAS to the
public. Such announcements and programs may not be a part of alerts or
tests,
[[Page 734]]
and may not simulate or attempt to copy alert tones or codes.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 63 FR 29664, June 1, 1998]
Sec. 11.47 Optional use of other communications methods and systems.
(a) Broadcast stations may additionally transmit EAS messages
through other communications means than the main audio channel. For
example, on a voluntary basis, FM stations may use subcarriers to
transmit the EAS codes including 57 kHz using the RBDS standard produced
by the National Radio Systems Committee (NRSC) and television stations
may use subsidiary communications services.
(b) Other technologies and public service providers, such as DBS,
low earth orbiting satellites, etc., that wish to participate in the EAS
may contact the FCC's Office of Homeland Security, Enforcement Bureau,
or their State Emergency Communications Committee for information and
guidance.
[60 FR 56000, Nov. 6, 1995, as amended at 65 FR 21658, Apr. 24, 2000; 69
FR 30234, May 27, 2004]
Subpart D_Emergency Operations
Sec. 11.51 EAS code and Attention Signal Transmission requirements.
(a) Broadcast stations must transmit, either automatically or
manually, national level EAS messages and required tests by sending the
EAS header codes, Attention Signal, emergency message and End of Message
(EOM) using the EAS Protocol. The Attention Signal must precede any
emergency audio message. After January 1, 1998, the shortened Attention
Signal may only be used as an audio alert signal and the EAS codes will
become the minimum signalling requirement for National level messages
and tests.
(b) When relaying EAS messages, broadcast stations and cable systems
and wireless cable systems may transmit only the EAS header codes and
the EOM code without the Attention Signal and emergency message for
State and local emergencies. Television stations, cable systems and
wireless cable systems should ensure that pauses in video programming
before EAS message transmission do not cause television receivers to
mute EAS audio messages. No Attention Signal is required for EAS
messages that do not contain audio programming, such as a Required
Weekly Test.
(c) Effective January 1, 1997, all radio and television stations
shall transmit EAS messages in the main audio channel.
(d) By the above date, television stations shall transmit a visual
message containing the Originator, Event, Location and the valid time
period of an EAS message. If the message is a video crawl, it shall be
displayed at the top of the television screen or where it will not
interfere with other visual messages.
(e) Class D non-commercial educational FM stations as defined in
Sec. 73.506 of this chapter, Low Power FM (LPFM) stations as defined in
Sec. Sec. 73.811 and 73.853 of this chapter, and low power TV (LPTV)
stations as defined in Sec. 74.701(f) of this chapter are not required
to have equipment capable of generating the EAS codes and Attention
Signal specified in Sec. 11.31.
(f) Broadcast station equipment generating the EAS codes and the
Attention Signal shall modulate a broadcast station transmitter so that
the signal broadcast to other broadcast stations and cable systems and
wireless cable systems alerts them that the EAS is being activated or
tested at the National, State or Local Area level. The minimum level of
modulation for EAS codes, measured at peak modulation levels using the
internal calibration output required in Sec. 11.32(a)(4), shall
modulate the transmitter at the maximum possible level, but in no case
less than 50% of full channel modulation limits. Measured at peak
modulation levels, each of the Attention Signal tones shall be
calibrated separately to modulate the transmitter at no less than 40%.
These two calibrated modulation levels shall have values that are within
1 dB of each other.
(g) Effective October 1, 2002, cable systems with fewer than 5,000
subscribers per headend and wireless cable
[[Page 735]]
systems with fewer than 5,000 subscribers shall transmit EAS audio
messages in the same order specified in paragraph (a) of this section on
at least one channel. The Attention Signal may be produced from a
storage device. Additionally, cable systems and wireless cable systems
must:
(1) Install, operate, and maintain equipment capable of generating
the EAS codes. The modulation levels for the EAS codes and Attention
Signal shall comply with the aural signal requirements in Sec. 76.605
of this chapter,
(2) Provide a video interruption and an audio alert message on all
channels. The audio alert message must state which channel is carrying
the EAS video and audio message,
(3) Cable systems and wireless cable systems shall transmit a visual
EAS message on at least one channel. The message shall contain the
Originator, Event, Location, and the valid time period of the EAS
message. If the visual message is a video crawl, it shall be displayed
at the top of the subscriber's television screen or where it will not
interfere with other visual messages.
(4) Cable systems and wireless cable systems may elect not to
interrupt EAS messages from broadcast stations based upon a written
agreement between all concerned. Further, cable systems and wireless
cable systems may elect not to interrupt the programming of a broadcast
station carrying news or weather related emergency information with
state and local EAS messages based on a written agreement between all
parties.
(h) Effective December 31, 1998, cable systems with 10,000 or more
subscribers; and, effective October 1, 2002, cable systems serving 5,000
or more, but less than 10,000 subscribers per headend and wireless cable
systems with 5,000 or more subscribers; shall transmit EAS audio
messages in the same order specified in paragraph (a) of this section.
The Attention Signal may be produced from a storage device.
Additionally, after the dates indicated, these cable systems and
wireless cable systems must:
(1) Install, operate, and maintain equipment capable of generating
the EAS codes. The modulation levels for the EAS codes and Attention
Signal for cable systems shall comply with the aural signal requirements
in Sec. 76.605 of this chapter. This will provide sufficient signal
levels to operate cable subscriber television and radio receivers
equipped with EAS decoders and to audibly alert subscribers. Wireless
cable systems shall also provide sufficient signal levels to operate
subscriber television and radio receivers equipped with EAS decoders and
to audibly alert subscribers.
(2) The cable systems and wireless cable systems in this paragraph
(h) shall transmit the EAS audio message required in paragraph (a) of
this section on all downstream channels.
(3) The cable systems and wireless cable systems in this paragraph
(h) shall transmit the EAS visual message on all downstream channels.
The visual message shall contain the Originator, Event, Location and the
valid time period of the EAS message. These are elements of the EAS
header code and are described in Sec. 11.31. If the visual message is a
video crawl, it shall be displayed at the top of the subscriber's
television screen or where it will not interfere with other visual
messages.
(4) Cable systems and wireless cable systems may elect not to
interrupt EAS messages from broadcast stations based upon a written
agreement between all concerned. Further, cable systems and wireless
cable systems may elect not to interrupt the programming of a broadcast
station carrying news or weather related emergency information with
state and local EAS messages based on a written agreement between all
parties.
(i) If manual interrupt is used as authorized in paragraph (k) of
this section, EAS Encoders must be located so that broadcast station,
cable system or wireless cable system staff, at normal duty locations,
can initiate the EAS code and Attention Signal transmission.
(j) Broadcast stations, and cable systems and wireless cable systems
that are co-owned and co-located with a combined studio or control
facility, (such as an AM and FM licensed to the same entity and at the
same location or a cable headend serving more than one system) may
provide the EAS transmitting requirements contained
[[Page 736]]
in this section for the combined stations or cable systems or wireless
cable systems with one EAS Encoder. The requirements of Sec. 11.32 must
be met by the combined facility.
(k) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
are required to transmit all received EAS messages in which the header
code contains the Event codes for Emergency Action Notification (EAN),
Emergency Action Termination (EAT), and Required Monthly Test (RMT), and
when the accompanying location codes include their State or State/
county. These EAS messages shall be retransmitted unchanged except for
the LLLLLLLL-code which identifies the broadcast station, cable system,
wireless cable system, or other entity retransmitting the message. See
Sec. 11.31(c). If an EAS source originates an EAS message with the
Event codes in this paragraph, it must include the location codes for
the State and counties in its service area. When transmitting the
required weekly test, broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless
cable systems shall use the event code RWT. The location codes are the
state and county for the broadcast station city of license or cable
system or wireless cable system community or city. Other location codes
may be included upon approval of broadcast station, cable system or
wireless cable system management. EAS messages may be transmitted
automatically or manually.
(1) Automatic interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS
messages are required when facilities are unattended. Automatic
transmissions must include a permanent record that contains at a minimum
the following information: Originator, Event, Location and valid time
period of the message. The decoder performs the functions necessary to
determine which EAS messages are automatically transmitted by the
encoder.
(2) Manual interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS messages
may be used. EAS messages with the EAN Event code must be transmitted
immediately and Monthly EAS test messages within 60 minutes. All actions
must be logged and include the minimum information required for EAS
video messages.
(l) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
may employ a minimum delay feature, not to exceed 15 minutes, for
automatic interruption of EAS codes. However, this may not be used for
the EAN event which must be transmitted immediately. The delay time for
an RMT message may not exceed 60 minutes.
(m) Either manual or automatic operation of EAS equipment may be
used at broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
that use remote control. If manual operation is used, an EAS decoder
must be located at the remote control location and it must directly
monitor the signals of the two assigned EAS sources. If direct
monitoring of the assigned EAS sources is not possible at the remote
location, automatic operation is required. If automatic operation is
used, the remote control location may be used to override the
transmission of an EAS alert. Broadcast stations and cable systems and
wireless cable systems may change back and forth between automatic and
manual operation.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 56000, Nov. 6, 1995; 63
FR 29664, June 1, 1998; 65 FR 7639, Feb. 15, 2000; 67 FR 18510, Apr. 16,
2002]
Sec. 11.52 EAS code and Attention Signal Monitoring requirements.
(a) Before January 1, 1998, broadcast stations must be capable to
receiving the Attention Signal required by Sec. 11.32(a)(9) and
emergency messages of other broadcast stations during their hours of
operation. Effective January 1, 1997, all broadcast stations must
install and operate during their hours of operation, equipment capable
of receiving and decoding, either automatically or manually, the EAS
header codes, emergency messages and EOM code. The effective dates for
cable and wireless cable systems to install and operate EAS equipment
are set forth in Sec. 11.11.
Note to paragraph (a):
After January 1, 1998, the two-tone Attention Signal will not be
used to actuate two-tone decoders but will be used as an aural alert
signal.
[[Page 737]]
(b) If manual interrupt is used as authorized in Sec. 11.51(j)(2),
decoders must be located so that operators at their normal duty stations
at broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems can
be alerted immediately when EAS messages are received.
(c) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
that are co-owned and co-located with a combined studio or control
facility (such as an AM and FM licensed to the same entity and at the
same location or a cable headend serving more than one system) may
comply with the EAS monitoring requirements contained in this section
for the combined station or system with one EAS Decoder. The
requirements of Sec. 11.33 must be met by the combined facility.
(d) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
must monitor two EAS sources. The monitoring assignments of each
broadcast station and cable system and wireless cable system are
specified in the State EAS Plan and FCC Mapbook. They are developed in
accordance with FCC monitoring priorities.
(1) If the required EAS sources cannot be received, alternate
arrangements or a waiver may be obtained by written request to the FCC's
EAS office. In an emergency, a waiver may be issued over the telephone
with a follow up letter to confirm temporary or permanent reassignment.
(2) Broadcast station and cable system and wireless cable system
management shall determine which header codes will automatically
interrupt their programming for State and Local Area emergency
situations affecting their audiences.
(e) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
are required to interrupt normal programming either automatically or
manually when they receive an EAS message in which the header code
contains the Event codes for Emergency Action Notification (EAN),
Emergency Action Termination (EAT), and Required Monthly Test (RMT) for
their State or State/county location.
(1) Automatic interrupt of programming is required when facilities
are unattended. Automatic operation must provide a permanent record of
the EAS message that contains at a minimum the following information:
Originator, Event, Location and valid time period of the message.
(2) Manual interrupt of programming and transmission of EAS messages
may be used. EAS messages with the EAN Event code must be transmitted
immediately and Monthly EAS test messages within 60 minutes. All actions
must be logged and recorded. Decoders must be programmed for the EAN and
EAT Event header codes for National level emergencies and the RMT and
RWT Event header codes for required monthly and weekly tests, with the
appropriate accompanying State and State/county location codes.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 60 FR 56000, Nov. 6, 1995; 63
FR 29665, June 1, 1998; 67 FR 18510, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.53 Dissemination of Emergency Action Notification.
Initiation of the EAN by any one of the following sources is
sufficient to begin the emergency actions in Sec. 11.54.
(a) National Level. The EAN is issued by the White House. The EAN
message is sent from a government origination point to broadcast
stations and other entities participating in the PEP system. It is then
disseminated via:
(1) Radio and television broadcast stations.
(2) Cable systems and wireless cable systems.
(3) Other entities voluntarily participating in EAS.
(b) State level and Local Area levels. EAN dissemination
arrangements at these levels originate from State and local governments
in accordance with State and Local Area plans.
(c) Broadcast stations must, prior to commencing routine operation
or originating any emissions under program test, equipment test,
experimental, or other authorizations, determine whether the EAS has
been activated by monitoring the assigned EAS sources.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 63 FR 29666, June 1, 1998; 65
FR 7640, Feb. 15, 2000; 65 FR 30001, May 10, 2000; 67 FR 18510, Apr. 16,
2002]
[[Page 738]]
Sec. 11.54 EAS operation during a National Level emergency.
(a) The EAS Operating Handbook summarizes the procedures to be
followed upon receipt of a National level EAN or EAT Message.
(b) Immediately upon receipt of an EAN message, broadcast stations
and cable systems and wireless cable systems must:
(1) Monitor the two EAS sources assigned in the State or Local Area
plan or FCC Mapbook for any further instructions.
(2) Discontinue normal programming and follow the transmission
procedures in the appropriate section of the EAS Operating Handbook.
Announcements may be made in the same language as the primary language
of the station.
(i) Key EAS sources (National Primary (NP), Local Primary (LP),
State Primary (SP), State Relay (SR) and Participating National (PN)
sources) follow the transmission procedures and make the announcements
in the National Level Instructions of the EAS Operating Handbook.
(ii) Non-participating National (NN) sources follow the transmission
procedures and make the sign-off announcement in the EAS Operating
Handbook's National Level Instructions section for NN sources. After the
sign-off announcement, NN sources are required to remove their carriers
from the air and monitor for the Emergency Action Termination message.
NN sources using automatic interrupt under Sec. 11.51(k)(1), must
transmit the header codes, Attention Signal, sign-off announcement and
EOM code after receiving the appropriate EAS header codes for a national
emergency.
(3) After completing the above transmission procedures, key EAS and
Participating National sources must transmit a common emergency message
until receipt of the Emergency Action Termination Message. Message
priorities are specified in Sec. 11.44. If LP or SR sources of a Local
Area cannot provide an emergency message feed, any source in the Local
Area may elect to provide a message feed. This should be done in an
organized manner as designated in State and Local Area EAS Plans.
(4) The Standby Script shall be used until emergency messages are
available. The text of the Standby Script is in the EAS Operating
Handbook's section for Participating sources.
(5) TV broadcast stations shall display an appropriate EAS slide and
then transmit all EAS announcements visually and aurally as specified in
Sec. 73.1250(h) of this chapter.
(6) Cable systems and wireless cable systems shall transmit all EAS
announcements visually and aurally as specified in Sec. 11.51(g) and
(h).
(7) Announcements may be made in the same language as the primary
language of the station.
(8) Broadcast stations may transmit their call letters and cable
systems and wireless cable systems may transmit the names of the
communities they serve during an EAS activation. State and Local Area
identifications must be given as provided in State and Local Area EAS
plans.
(9) All broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable
systems operating and identified with a particular EAS Local Area must
transmit a common national emergency message until receipt of the
Emergency Action Termination.
(10) Broadcast stations, except those holding an EAS Non-
participating National Authorization letter, are exempt from complying
with Sec. Sec. 73.62 and 73.1560 of this chapter (operating power
maintenance) while operating under this part.
(11) National Primary (NP) sources must operate under the procedures
in the National Control Point Procedures.
(12) The time of receipt of the EAN and Emergency Action Termination
messages shall be entered by broadcast stations in their logs (as
specified in Sec. Sec. 73.1820 and 73.1840 of this chapter), by cable
systems in their records (as specified in Sec. 76.305 of this chapter),
and by subject wireless cable systems in their records (as specified in
Sec. 21.304 of this chapter).
(c) Upon receipt of an Emergency Action Termination Message,
broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems must
follow the termination procedures in the EAS Operating Handbook.
(d) Broadcast stations and cable systems and wireless cable systems
originating emergency communications
[[Page 739]]
under this section shall be considered to have conferred rebroadcast
authority, as required by Section 325(a) of the Communications Act of
1934, 47 U.S.C. 325(a), to other participating broadcast stations, cable
systems and wireless cable systems.
(e) During a national level EAS emergency, broadcast stations may
transmit in lieu of the EAS audio feed an audio feed of the President's
voice message from an alternative source, such as a broadcast network
audio feed.
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 63 FR 29666, June 1, 1998; 63
FR 39035, July 21, 1998; 65 FR 21658, Apr. 24, 2000; 65 FR 53614, Sept.
5, 2000; 67 FR 18511, Apr. 16, 2002]
Sec. 11.55 EAS operation during a State or Local Area emergency.
(a) The EAS may be activated at the State and Local Area levels by
broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems at their
discretion for day-to-day emergency situations posing a threat to life
and property. Examples of natural emergencies which may warrant
activation are: tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, heavy snows,
icing conditions, widespread fires, etc. Man-made emergencies may
include: toxic gas leaks or liquid spills, widespread power failures,
industrial explosions, and civil disorders.
(b) EAS operations must be conducted as specified in State and Local
Area EAS Plans. The plans must list all authorized entities
participating in the State or Local Area EAS.
(c) Immediately upon receipt of a State or Local Area EAS message,
broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems
participating in the State or Local Area EAS must do the following:
(1) State Relay (SR) sources monitor the State Relay Network or
follow the State EAS plan for instructions from the State Primary (SP)
source.
(2) Local Primary (LP) sources monitor the Local Area SR sources or
follow the State EAS plan for instructions.
(3) Participating National (PN) and Non-participating National (NN)
sources monitor the Local Area LP sources for instructions.
(4) Broadcast stations, cable systems and wireless cable systems
participating in the State or Local Area EAS must discontinue normal
programming and follow the procedures in the State and Local Area plans.
Television stations must comply with Sec. 11.54(b)(5) and cable systems
and wireless cable systems must comply with Sec. 11.54(b)(6). Broadcast
stations providing foreign language programming shall comply with Sec.
11.54(b)(7).
(5) Upon completion of the State or Local Area EAS transmission
procedures, resume normal programming until receipt of the cue from the
SR or LP sources in your Local Area. At that time begin transmitting the
common emergency message received from the above sources.
(6) Resume normal operations upon conclusion of the message.
(7) The times of the above EAS actions must be entered in the
broadcast station, cable system or wireless cable system records as
specified in Sec. 11.54(b)(12).
(8) Use of the EAS codes or Attention Signal automatically grants
rebroadcast authority as specified in Sec. 11.54(d).
[59 FR 67092, Dec. 28, 1994, as amended at 63 FR 29666, June 1, 1998; 65
FR 21658, Apr. 24, 2000; 67 FR 18511, Apr. 16, 2002]
Subpart E_Tests
Sec. 11.61 Tests of EAS procedures.
(a) Tests shall be made at regular intervals as indicated in
paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section. Additional tests may be
performed anytime. EAS activations and special tests may be performed in
lieu of required tests as specified in paragraph (a)(4) of this section.
All tests will conform with the procedures in the EAS Operating
Handbook.
(1) Required Monthly Tests of the EAS header codes, Attention
Signal, Test Script and EOM code.
(i) Effective January 1, 1997, AM, FM and TV stations.
(ii) Effective October 1, 2002, cable systems with fewer than 5,000
subscribers per headend.
(iii) Effective December 31, 1998, cable systems with 10,000 or more
subscribers; and effective October 1, 2002, cable systems serving 5,000
or more,
[[Page 740]]
but less than 10,000 subscribers per headend.
(iv) Effective October 1, 2002, all wireless cable systems.
(v) Tests in odd numbered months shall occur between 8:30 a.m. and
local sunset. Tests in even numbered months shall occur between local
sunset and 8:30 a.m. They will originate from Local or State Primary
sources. The time and script content will be developed by State
Emergency Communications Committees in cooperation with affected
broadcast stations, cable systems, wireless cable systems, and other
participants. Script content may be in the primary language of the
broadcast station or cable system. These monthly tests must be
transmitted within 60 minutes of receipt by broadcast stations and cable
systems and wireless cable systems in an EAS Local Area or State. Class
D non-commercial educational FM and LPTV stations are required to
transmit only the test script.
(2) Required Weekly Tests:
(i) EAS Header Codes and EOM Codes:
(A) Effective January 1, 1997, AM, FM and TV stations must conduct
tests of the EAS header and EOM codes at least once a week at random
days and times.
(B) Effective December 31, 1998, cable systems with 10,000 or more
subscribers per headend must conduct tests of the EAS header and EOM
codes at least once a week at random days and times on all programmed
channels:
(C) Effective October 1, 2002, cable systems serving fewer than
5,000 subscribers per headend must conduct tests of the EAS header and
EOM codes at least once a week at random days and times on at least one
programmed channel.
(D) Effective October 1, 2002, the following cable systems and
wireless cable systems must conduct tests of the EAS header and EOM
codes at least once a week at random days and times on all programmed
channels:
(1) Cable systems serving 5,000 or more, but less than 10,000
subscribers per headend; and,
(2) Wireless cable systems with 5,000 or more subscribers.
(E) Effective October 1, 2002, the following cable systems and
wireless cable systems must conduct tests of the EAS header and EOM
codes at least once a week at random days and times on at least one
programmed channel:
(1) Cable systems with fewer than 5,000 subscribers per headend;
and,
(2) Wireless cable systems with fewer than 5,000 subscribers.
(ii) Class D non-commercial educational FM and LPTV stations are not
required to transmit this test but must log receipt.
(iii) The EAS weekly test is not required during the week that a
monthly test is conducted.
(iv) TV stations, cable television systems and wireless cable
systems are not required to transmit a video message when transmitting
the required weekly test.
(3) Periodic National Tests. National Primary (NP) sources shall
participate in tests as appropriate. The FCC may request a report of
these tests.
(4) EAS activations and special tests. The EAS may be activated for
emergencies or special tests at the State or Local Area level by a
broadcast station, cable system or wireless cable system instead of the
monthly or weekly tests required by this section. To substitute for a
monthly test, activation must include transmission of the EAS header
codes, Attention Signal, emergency message and EOM code and comply with
the visual message requirements in Sec. 11.51. To substitute for the
weekly test of the EAS header codes and EOM codes in paragraph (2)(i) of
this section, activation must include transmission of the EAS header and
EOM codes. Television stations and cable systems and wireless cable
systems shall comply with the aural and visual message requirements in
Sec. 11.51. Special EAS tests at the State and Local Area levels may be
conducted on daily basis following procedures in State and Local Area
EAS plans.
(b) Entries shall be made in broadcast station and cable system and
wireless cable system records as specified in Sec. 11.54(b)(12).
[67 FR 18511, Apr. 16, 2002]
[[Page 741]]