ERRR…ERRR…ERRR!!! The screeching noise emanating from each of our cell phones was heard in every classroom.  What was this noise? America’s National Emergency Alert Test. This message, though irritating, was an attempt to further assist Americans in receiving instant information regarding national calamities. Additionally, the potential use of a national alert (that is not a test) can help uncover illegal actions before they occur. 

Although already in jail, criminals in their cells were caught with cell phones due to the national alert. Phones were confiscated immediately. According to Complex.com, however: “A source from a prison in Nevada [said that the prison]… didn’t confiscate any phones since most of their prisoners knew the alert would go off, so they turned off their devices.” Interestingly, a national emergency test was able to identify criminals utilizing their cell phones through mysterious procedures.

The National Emergency Alert can further develop the speed at which citizens receive detrimental information. This information could include a kidnapping or a worldwide disaster that can ultimately decide one’s fate. Even though some citizens choose to ignore these messages, they are an important reminder for us to remain vigilant and aware of our surroundings at all times.