Nationwide test of Canada’s public alerting system happening today
Canadians can expect a test alert to sound off over their television, radio, and compatible wireless devices on Wednesday.
There will be a test of Alert Ready, Canada’s Public Alerting System, on Wednesday, November 17. Emergency management organizations in each province or territory will issue a test message to the public over television, radio, and compatible wireless devices.
WHY IS THERE A TEST OF THE ALERT READY SYSTEM?
Regular testing provides public safety officials with an opportunity to validate and improve the performance and reliability of Alert Ready. Tests ensure that the Alert Ready system operates as intended during an imminent life-threatening situation such as an AMBER Alert, a tornado, or a wildfire.
The following schedule outlines when you expect a test alert in your region:
No sign-up is required, and those with compatible devices will automatically receive the test. You can check with your wireless carrier to see if your phone is compatible to receive alerts or via the Alert Ready website here.
WHAT WILL THE TEST SOUND/LOOK LIKE?
The sound will simulate an emergency alert, beginning with this distinct tone. In addition, radio and television broadcasters will use an audio version of the test alert message generated through a text-to-speech (TTS) software. The TTS functionality on wireless is managed by the device manufacturer and may be read to the recipient if the device supports this feature.
The message will indicate that it is a test and does not require action from the public.
CAN I OPT OUT?
Given the importance of warning Canadians of an imminent threat to the safety of life or property, Canadians do not have an option to opt out of the test or actual alerts distributed through Alert Ready.
WILL I RECEIVE MORE THAN ONE TEST ALERT
Only one test alert will be issued in each province or territory. If you are receiving repeated alerts for the same message, your wireless device likely has a reminder feature set, causing the alert to repeat until you acknowledge it. Your wireless service provider can assist if this happens to you.
The Weather Network also distributes Alert Ready public alerts on all platforms in committing to our mission of keeping Canadians safe. If you are watching us on TV or using our app, you will receive the test alert from us too.
WHO ISSUES ALERTS VIA ALERT READY?
Provincial, territorial, and federal public safety authorities are responsible for issuing alerts; however, there is a multi-step process in delivering these alerts to the Canadian public. Each stakeholder plays a unique and vital role in Alert Ready.
