HOUSTON — Texas emergency officials will conduct a statewide drill on Thursday to test public alert systems and ensure they function effectively during emergencies. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) is coordinating with local partners ahead of the exercise.
TDEM Chief Nim Kidd said regular testing builds readiness, promotes confidence in alert technology, and identifies potential weaknesses.
Local jurisdictions will run primary, backup, and contingency alert systems within a designated testing window. TDEM has asked school districts, colleges, councils of government, tribal nations, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations capable of sending emergency alerts to participate.
After the drill, participants must provide TDEM with summaries of performance, including successes and areas for improvement.
Fort Bend County and La Porte residents will not receive the alerts, as their offices recently completed tests. Fort Bend County ran its test in November, and La Porte conducts frequent local drills.