> What does EBS mean, anyway? And why is that initial tone so
familiar?
>
> Mike
What does that mean?!!! Are you KIDDING?!!! No, wait, you're under
40...
The EBS is the Emergency Broadcast System. It is an electronic
network that ties all radio and television stations together for
emergency service broadcasts. These broadcasts can be regionalized
or nationwide. The EBS was put into operation in the early 1950's
and fully implemented shortly after.
Why? Because of the nuclear threat and the Cold War! As a child, I
saw many films and filmstrips (beep!- next frame...) about how to
protect myself when a nuclear explosion occurred in my area. Useful
stuff like, "lie in a ditch and cover your head", "cover yourself
with a raincoat", "put your head down on your desk until your
teacher says it's safe". I only wish I were kidding, Mike.
You know, I can still remember the "Duck and Cover" song and film!
Yeah! There was this little turtle guy skipping down the street.
Suddenly he sees the "bright flash" of an atomic weapon exploding on
the corner! Does our little friend panic? Of course not, silly!
He merely pulls his head, feet and tail into his shell while
singing - "Duck, duck and cover! When you see the flash..."
Afterwards, he shakes the fallout dust off and goes on his way
whistling merrily. Naturally all of his friends would have been
alerted by the Emergency Broadcast Network and were safely ducking
under raincoats and the like.
Just be thankful that the familiar voice and accompanying eerie tone
has so far been "a test".
Chub - presently hiding under his pillow...