An AMBER alert appeared on an Apple Watch screen in Ottawa on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. The Canadian Press
Canada will run a test of its emergency alert system this Wednesday, May 7. People across the country will hear or see test alerts on their phones, radios, and TVs. These messages will sound like real emergency warnings but are only tests.
What Is Alert Ready?
Alert Ready is Canada’s national system that warns people about emergencies. It sends messages to phones, television stations, and radio channels. The goal is to quickly inform the public when serious events like natural disasters or AMBER alerts happen.
Where Will the Test Happen?
Every province and territory will take part in the test—except Quebec. Each area will receive the alert at a different time depending on their time zone. The alert will begin with a loud tone, followed by a message.
Test Alert Times by Region:
- Alberta – 1:55 p.m. MDT
- British Columbia – 1:55 p.m. PDT
- Manitoba – 1:55 p.m. CDT
- New Brunswick – 10:55 a.m. ADT
- Newfoundland and Labrador – 10:45 a.m. NDT
- Northwest Territories – 9:55 a.m. MDT
- Nova Scotia – 1:55 p.m. ADT
- Nunavut – 2:00 p.m. EDT
- Ontario – 12:55 p.m. EDT
- Prince Edward Island – 12:55 p.m. ADT
- Saskatchewan – 1:55 p.m. CST
- Yukon – 1:55 p.m. YST
Why Are These Alerts Important?
These alerts help protect people during serious situations. Since 2024, Canada has used Alert Ready 877 times. Alerts include warnings for floods, tornadoes, and abducted children. These messages can save lives by giving people enough time to act.
Can You Turn the Alerts Off?
No, Canadians cannot turn these alerts off. The alerts go to all phones that connect to LTE or 5G networks. However, not every phone will receive them. Older phones or devices not on a strong network might miss the alert.
What Should You Do During the Test?
People don’t need to take action during this test. Just know it’s not real. The message will clearly say it is only a test. The goal is to check the system and fix any issues before a real emergency happens.
Why Quebec Is Not Included
The test will not happen in Quebec this time. The reason has not been shared, but future tests may include all provinces and territories.
