This is a test, this is only a test

The public should expect to observe a live test, of a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), Monday, Dec. 30, in the afternoon, conducted by the Chippewa County Sheriff’s office, which will be pushed through their cell phones, in a geographically targeted area of population density.

The sheriff’s office has been in the research and devolvement stage of new mass notification software. Starting in 2026, they plan to eliminate some unnecessary spending, by solely depending on the sheriff’s office Mobile App as the host for IPAWS.

A test of the EAS will also broadcast over local television and local radio stations. This feature would be used in similar circumstances, as above, but also when the event has a suspected greater impact area, such as a path of severe weather.

Even though the mobile app is the host of IPAWS, the public will not have to download the app to receive mass notifications sent through IPAWS.

“This feature is tested to ensure our ability to notify members of the community in certain areas, of imminent dangers to their safety,” said sheriff Travis Hakes. “Examples of this feature being used, would be when we have an active threat incident or severe weather.”