Canada to Conduct Nationwide Emergency Alert Test Soon
Canada is preparing for a nationwide emergency alert test, set for Wednesday. All provinces and territories will receive this alert, which is part of a requirement from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). The CRTC mandates that wireless service providers and broadcasters issue at least one test alert annually, scheduled for either May or November.
Details of the Emergency Alert Test
The test will be executed by Alert Ready, the organization managing Canada’s emergency alert system. It will feature an alert tone known as the Canadian Alert Attention Signal. The alert will clearly state that it is a test, meaning no public action is required.
Importance of the Test
This exercise is crucial for preparing emergency response teams to issue alerts during real emergencies, such as:
- Wildfires
- Tornadoes
- Missing person incidents
Alert Schedule by Province and Territory
Canadians can expect the test at the following times across different regions:
| Province/Territory | Local Time |
|---|---|
| Alberta | 1:55 p.m. MST |
| British Columbia | 1:55 p.m. PST |
| Manitoba | 1:55 p.m. CST |
| New Brunswick | 10:55 a.m. AST |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 10:45 a.m. NST |
| Northwest Territories | 1:55 p.m. MST |
| Nova Scotia | 1:55 p.m. AST |
| Nunavut | 2:00 p.m. EST |
| Ontario | 12:55 p.m. EST |
| Prince Edward Island | 12:55 p.m. EST |
| Saskatchewan | 1:55 p.m. CST |
| Yukon | 1:55 p.m. YST |
This test reinforces the effectiveness of Canada’s emergency alert system and ensures that citizens are prepared for potential emergencies.