WX-17 Manual 3/7/02 11:25 AM Page 4

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the WX-17 First Alert® portable Emergency Alert Radio with AM/FM. This product is designed to exacting standards, which provide reliability, long life and outstanding performance.

This unit is designed to receive National Weather Service (NWS) broadcasts, by NOAA Weather Radio which provides information about weather conditions, forecasts and hazard information 24 hours a day. Your First Alert® Emergency Alert Radio will also alert you to emergency warnings or watches issued by NOAA with its built-in siren.

The Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Aerospace Administration (NOAA) provides NOAA Weather Radio as a public service. NOAA has more than 550 stations in the 50 states and near adjacent coastal waters, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the U.S. Pacific Territories.

The WX-17 Emergency Alert Radio receives all of the seven NOAA channels. (NOTE: You have to select the correct weather channel in order to receive warnings for the state/county in which you

are located). The unit will sound an audible alert tone when an alert tone is received.

Working with other Federal agencies and the FCC’s new Emergency Alert System (EAS), NOAA is the single source for weather and emergency information available to the public.

For up-to-date information on NOAA and weather frequencies used in your area, check the NOAA National Weather Service website at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr.

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First Alert WX-17 user manual Introduction

WX-17 specifications

The First Alert WX-17 is a high-performance weather radio designed to keep users informed about severe weather conditions and emergencies, making it an essential tool for anyone who wants to stay prepared. This compact and portable device is not just a weather radio; it also serves multiple purposes, ensuring safety and convenience for all users.

One of the standout features of the WX-17 is its NOAA Weather Radio capability. It broadcasts continuous weather information directly from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, providing real-time updates and alerts about severe weather such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods. This ensures that users receive timely notifications that could mean the difference between safety and danger.

The WX-17 is equipped with Same technology (Specific Area Message Encoding), which allows users to receive emergency alerts specific to their geographic area. This is particularly beneficial for people living in regions prone to severe weather, as it minimizes irrelevant alerts and focuses on local emergencies.

Battery backup is another notable characteristic of the WX-17. The device operates on both AC power and batteries, ensuring functionality during power outages or emergencies. The long battery life means users can rely on it for extended periods, even when they are away from traditional power sources. Moreover, the device also includes a built-in LED flashlight, adding an extra layer of utility in dark situations.

The WX-17's design is user-friendly, featuring an easy-to-read LCD display that provides clear information about alerts and weather conditions. The intuitive controls allow seamless navigation through various settings and options, making it accessible for users of all ages.

A unique aspect of the WX-17 is its Alert Function, which can be customized to ensure notifications are received at the right times. Users can set specific alerts for severe weather or child-related notifications, allowing for tailored security measures.

In summary, the First Alert WX-17 weather radio integrates cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features to provide a reliable source of emergency weather information. With its NOAA broadcasts, Same technology, battery backup, built-in flashlight, and customizable alerts, this device excels in keeping families safe and informed in times of need. Whether you’re at home, on a camping trip, or in a vulnerable area prone to severe weather, the WX-17 is an indispensable addition to your preparedness toolkit.