Nationwide alert system prepares Canadians for disasters — no action needed
Tests Set for Most Provinces and Territories
Canadians in most regions will hear test emergency alerts on Wednesday, May 7. These alerts will broadcast on television, radio, and wireless devices.
The Alert Ready system, part of the National Public Alerting System (NPAS), will run tests in eight provinces and all three territories. Alberta and Quebec will not participate this month.
What to Expect During the Test
The alert will include a loud warning tone and message. It will look and sound like a real emergency. However, it is only a test. No action is required from the public.
Despite the effort, not all phones may receive the alert. Reasons include older devices, outdated software, weak signal, or being outside LTE or 5G coverage. Some phones are simply not compatible. Canadians can check device compatibility on the Alert Ready website.
Who Is Behind the System?
The NPAS is a joint project between federal, provincial, and territorial governments. Each province or territory decides whether to take part in a test.
The goal is to warn the public of serious threats. These include natural disasters like tornadoes, floods, or wildfires. Amber Alerts are also issued through this system to help locate missing children.
Why Test Now?
May 7 falls within Emergency Preparedness Week. Public Safety Canada uses this week to promote awareness. They also provide an online guide to help Canadians plan for emergencies.
Running system tests during this time encourages families and communities to stay alert and ready. It’s a reminder that preparation saves lives.
Test Times by Region
Different provinces and territories will receive the alert at different times. Here is the full schedule:
- British Columbia: 1:55 p.m. PT
- Manitoba: 1:55 p.m. CT
- New Brunswick: 10:55 a.m. AT
- Newfoundland and Labrador: 10:45 a.m. NT
- Northwest Territories: 9:55 a.m. MT
- Nova Scotia: 1:55 p.m. AT
- Nunavut: 2:00 p.m. ET
- Ontario: 12:55 p.m. ET
- Prince Edward Island: 12:55 p.m. AT
- Saskatchewan: 1:55 p.m. CT
- Yukon: 1:55 p.m. YT
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
While the test may be brief, its purpose is serious. In a real emergency, seconds matter. These alerts give people critical time to act. They provide instructions to help avoid injury or loss.
If your phone does not receive the test alert, don’t panic. Visit your provider’s website or Alert Ready’s FAQ section. There may be a fix, such as updating software or changing settings.
Alberta and Quebec Hold Off
This month, Alberta and Quebec opted out of testing. Provinces choose whether to run tests based on their own needs and schedules. Both have participated in past tests and may join in future ones.
Final Reminder
No one needs to call 911 when the alert sounds. It is only a test. Its goal is to build public awareness and improve readiness.
For more information or to prepare your household, visit Public Safety Canada’s Emergency Guide.
Being ready starts with being informed.
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