Utah to conduct statewide AMBER Alert System test
The Utah Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) will conduct a statewide test of the AMBER Alert system on Thursday, April 3, between 4 p.m. and 4:30 PM.
This test aims to align the system with modern national standards and ensure seamless integration with FEMA’s Emergency Alert System (EAS).
Eagle Mountain City Emergency Manager Dave Ulibarri says regular testing is important.
“Really, we want to make sure we can evaluate the system’s performance,” says Ulibarri. “From the state level, they can decide if there are gaps and evaluate the system’s efficiency.”
During the test, a TEST AMBER Alert notification will be sent across multiple communication channels, including mobile devices, television, radio and highway message boards.
The test alert will include a distinct tone and vibration on mobile devices, mimicking a real AMBER Alert, but will clearly state that it is only a test and no action is required.
The AMBER Alert system is a crucial tool for locating abducted children. System upgrades and regular testing help improve the system’s reliability and effectiveness.
By conducting this test, officials can verify that the system is functioning correctly and that alerts will be delivered efficiently in the event of an actual emergency.
“This is just another level of resiliency and redundancy that we can have these tools as residents to help each other,” says Ulibarri. “Especially in an AMBER Alert situation, there’s evidence that it works.”
Residents are encouraged to spread awareness, particularly to local agencies and community partners, to prevent unnecessary concern when the alert is issued.
Additionally, any technical concerns or irregularities observed during the test should be reported to the Utah Department of Public Safety to aid in evaluating the system’s performance.
The Utah DPS appreciates the public’s cooperation and support in ensuring that Utah’s AMBER Alert system remains a reliable resource for child safety.