Frequent asked questions, How do i test my radio – Radio Shack 12-521 User Manual
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Frequent Asked Questions
How do I test my radio?
The NWS broadcast test alerts every week on Wednesday between 11 AM and 1 PM.
To find out the specific test schedule in your area, contact your local NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and, NWS. These offices are listed in most
telephone books or online at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/indexnw.htm. These
test alerts are off by default. To change your alert settings see “Programming Alerts” on
page 10.
Important: Clear reception of a weather broadcast signal does not guarantee an
emergency alert will trigger your radio’s alert function. Your Hazard Alert Radio’s
alert function will only be triggered by an emergency alert when you program the
weather radio with the FIPS code for your area.
Multiple FIPS codes are stored, but why does the radio only
respond to alerts for one area?
Make sure your radio is set to
MULTIPLE
mode. See “Programming Locations and
SAME Codes” on page 9.
Why is there no weather broadcast when I press WEATHER/SNOOZE?
• Make sure the telescoping antenna is fully extended.
• Make sure the radio is set to the weather channel broadcast in your area. See
“Setting Channels” on page 6.
What is the difference between a watch and a warning?
Your radio is preset to receive warnings, watches and advisories from the NWS.
• A watch alerts you to potential severe weather approaching your area.
It doesn’t mean severe weather will occur, but that the right conditions
exist which could lead to severe storms. You should be prepared for the
deteriorating weather.
• A warning states the severe weather is imminent or present in your vicinity.
You should immediately take precautions to protect yourself and your family.
How can I adapt my weather alert radio for special needs?
You can use your weather alert radio with a universal interface and modules to
trigger a siren and/or flash particular lights when an alert is received. For detailed
information, see “Connecting to an External System” on page 11.
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