Emergency Alert System (EAS)

2026 EAS RMT schedule

The State of Ohio Required Monthly Test Schedule is available HERE.

WAKS-FM Now Providing Alternative to WTAM for EAS Monitoring

In an effort to provide a more reliable, static-free alternative to WTAM 1100 AM, we’ve created an FM station monitoring option. 96.5 WAKS-FM is now providing the same level of local, state and national EAS alerts as WTAM. You are not required to file any documentation with the FCC or State of Ohio SECC to make this monitoring change. The choice is yours whether you continue monitoring WTAM-AM or switch to WAKS-FM for the LP-1 monitoring requirement. Click here to read more from Greg Savoldi, Chairman, State of Ohio SECC.

State of Ohio Emergency Alert Plan

Local radio and television stations play a critical role during emergencies, providing life-saving information through news broadcasts and the Emergency Alert System (EAS).  The Oho State Emergency Communications Committee (SECC) is responsible for preparing Ohio’s EAS plan in compliance with FCC rules and regulations and in cooperation with the State of Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS).

The Ohio EAS plan has been significantly revised and was approved by the FCC in June 2023.  Stations participating in the EAS system may request additional information about monitoring assignments by contacting the OAB.

2023 EAS Operating Handbook

In February, 2023, the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau released an updated version of the EAS Operating Handbook.  The last version of the Handbooks was issued in 2021.  The 2023 EAS Operating Handbook is available HERE.

FCC rules require that all stations keep a copy of the Handbook “at normal duty positions or EAS equipment locations when an operator is required to be on duty” and that the Handbook “be immediately available to staff responsible for authenticating messages and initiating actions.”