Minnesota Blue Alert System Test Scheduled For August 15

We've all heard Emergency Alert System (EAS) notifications for inclement weather and we're all aware of Amber Alerts for abducted children, but this Thursday there will be a new kind of test.

Thursday, August 15 at 1:10 p.m. there will be a test of the Blue Alert System.  According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the Blue Alert System was established to notify the public:

When a local, state or federal law enforcement officer is killed or seriously wounded in the line of duty, the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) can issue a Blue Alert that includes detailed vehicle information as well as information about the suspect and the circumstances of the incident. It will also include any available photos. That way, if any member of the public sees a vehicle or person matching the description, they can dial 911 as soon as it’s safe to do so and report it. It’s important to remember never to try to apprehend or even approach the subject of a Blue Alert, as they could still be dangerous.

These new alerts, as well as Thursday's test, will be triggered on the radio and on television through the EAS system.  They will also be sent out via email, text or fax to all media and Minnesota Crime Alert Network subscribers.