Canadians to receive national alert test on phones, TV and radio Nov. 19

Don’t be “alarmed” when your phone goes off today (Wednesday, Nov. 19) at 12:55 p.m., as Canada’s public emergency alerting system will be undergoing a nationwide test.

The Alert Ready message and accompanying tone will be transmitted on television, radio and on wireless devices that are compatible with the system.

Tests will be issued in every province and territory at set times between late morning and early afternoon. In Ontario, the alert is expected at 12:55 p.m.

The system is tested twice a year, in May and November, to confirm it’s functioning properly and to give emergency officials a chance to practise sending alerts for situations such as severe weather, wildfires and Amber Alerts.

Canadians cannot opt out of today’s test or any real emergency alert.

Alert Ready had delivered close to 900 emergency notifications across the country this year as of Oct. 31.

Canada’s National Public Alerting System (NPAS) provides emergency management organizations across the country with the capability to rapidly warn the public of imminent or unfolding hazards to life. Public alerts are issued over compatible wireless devices, cable and satellite television and radio.