Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs) - Radio Shack 12-519 User Manual

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are FIPS codes and SAME signals?
The National Weather Service (NWS) precedes each weather alert with a
digitally encoded SAME (Specific Area Message Encoding) signal, then a 1050
Hz tone. The SAME signal includes a FIPS (Federal Information Processing
Standard) code and an event code that corresponds with the type of alert
being sent.
The FIPS code format is:
Subdivisions
0-9
(0=entire area) (00=all states)
Example: 048439
(0=All; 48=Texas; 439=Tarrant County)
To obtain the FIPS codes for your area, contact your local RadioShack store or
call the NWS toll free at 1-888-NWR-SAME (1-888-697-7263). You can also visit
the NWS website: www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/indexnw.htm.
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Note: Your weather radio comes pre-programmed with FIPS codes sorted
by state and county. Do not change your FIPS code unless you have confirmed
with the NWS. See "Receiving Alerts for Specific Areas" on page 10 for more
information.
What is an alert?
Your radio is preset to receive warnings, watches, and advisories from the
NWS. When an alert is received, a voice or tone alert sounds, and the alert
description and duration appear on the display. Alert descriptions are based
on a list of specific weather alert types published by NWS. For a list of alert
descriptions displayed on your Weather Alert Radio, refer to "NWS Alert
Descriptions" on page 16-18.
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Note: If severe weather is imminent, do not wait for an alert tone.
What are undefined or unrecognized alerts?
The NWS occasionally broadcasts weather information intended for
commercial or other non-public use, or creates and broadcasts new alert
types. If a signal for a new alert type is received and the alert is turned on,
and the alert description (warning, watch, or advisory)
UNRECOGNIZED
displays.
State County
01-50 XXX
(000=all counties)
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