On October 4th, 2023, FEMA and the FCC planned a nationwide emergency alert test in the United States. The test messages were sent to all TVs, radios, and cell phones. The test was scheduled to begin at approximately 10:20 am AKT and involved two parts: a 30-minute signal sent to radios and televisions as part of EAS, and a similar one sent to all consumer cell phones as part of the WEA system. If the test was postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the back-up testing date was October 11. There were also conspiracy theories about the test, with some claiming that it would activate nanoparticles such as graphene oxide that have been introduced into peoples bodies. It is important to note that these claims are not supported by scientific evidence. Additionally, Qantas Group subsidiary Network Aviation pilots in Western Australia planned to conduct a 24-hour strike on October 4th over a pay dispute.