SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) will conduct a statewide test of the AMBER Alert system on Thursday, April 3, at approximately 4 p.m. Officials say the test is necessary to verify recent system upgrades and ensure that the state’s AMBER Alert system aligns with modern national alerting standards.
DPS spokesperson Hillary Koellner said the test will involve multiple communication channels, including mobile devices, radio, television, and highway message boards, as well as integration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Emergency Alert System (EAS).
“The AMBER Alert system is a critical tool for quickly notifying the public when a child is abducted,” Bureau of Criminal Identification Director Jason Ricks said. “These upgrades will ensure that alerts are delivered efficiently and effectively. Testing is essential to ensure the system operates as expected in a real emergency.”
Koellner explained that during the test, Utahns will receive a TEST AMBER Alert notification on their mobile devices, accompanied by an alert tone and vibration. The message will clearly indicate that it is a test and that no action is required.
DPS officials urge the public not to be alarmed by the test. They appreciate the cooperation of Utah residents as the state works to maintain the emergency alert system.