IEMA Releases Disaster Preparedness Radio Spots Featuring Alan Kalter

‘Late Show with David Letterman’ announcer is ‘voice of reason’ as he encourages people to prepare for disasters'

SPRINGFIELD – A voice familiar to many late-night TV fans is now promoting disaster preparedness to radio listeners across Illinois.  Alan Kalter, widely known as the “announcer” and for his comedic sketches on “Late Show with David Letterman,” recently recorded two radio spots for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency’s (IEMA) statewide preparedness campaign.

“These new radio spots featuring Alan Kalter are an exciting addition to our Ready Illinois preparedness campaign,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken.  “"His recognizable voice and trademark delivery will capture listeners' attention and help us reach more people with our message about personal disaster preparedness."

In 30- and 60-second radio spots, Kalter encourages people to use common sense, especially when planning for disasters.  Referring to himself as “the voice of reason,” Kalter stresses the importance of not only having an emergency supply kit and a disaster plan, but also practicing that plan.  Both spots direct listeners to the Ready Illinois website  (www.Ready.Illinois.gov​) for disaster preparedness information.

The new spots started airing recently as part of the Ready Illinois broadcast preparedness campaign, which is aired in cooperation with the Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA) Public Education Partnership (PEP) program.  The spots will air on more than 200 Illinois radio stations. 

“We’re thrilled Alan agreed to participate in the on-going Ready Illinois campaign promoting emergency preparedness and the Ready Illinois website,” said Dennis Lyle, President and CEO of the Illinois Broadcasters Association. “Kalter provides the listener with just a hint of his trademark sarcasm while delivering a very serious message regarding the use of common sense when it comes to planning emergency preparedness for the home, work, car, and yes, even for pets.”

IEMA’s partnership with the IBA’s PEP program also features radio spots recorded by actress Marion Ross of TV’s “Happy Days” fame; TV and radio personality Steve Harvey; the late Larry Lujack and Tommy Edwards (reprising their roles as “Uncle Lar’ and Li’l Tommy” from the WLS ‘Animal Stories’ vignettes); as well as TV spots written and/or produced by Illinois high school and college students.  ​ 

All of the preparedness radio and TV ads can be found on the Ready Illinois website (www.Ready.Illinois.gov​).