Residents across Northumberland County, including Brighton, Cobourg and Port Hope, will receive a test emergency alert today as part of Emergency Preparedness Week.
The Alert Ready system test is scheduled for Thursday, May 7 at 12:55 p.m. in Ontario and will be broadcast on television, radio, and compatible wireless devices.
The message will simulate an emergency alert, beginning with the familiar alert tone, and will clearly indicate that it is only a test and that no action is required.
Officials say the purpose of the test is to raise awareness of Canada’s national emergency alert system, ensure it is functioning properly, and provide an opportunity for emergency management organizations to practise issuing alerts.
Not all residents will receive the alert on their mobile device. Factors such as device compatibility, network connection, and user settings can affect whether the message is received.
The Alert Ready system is used to deliver urgent warnings about threats to life and property, including tornadoes, floods, wildfires, and AMBER Alerts.
Because of its role in public safety, Canadians cannot opt out of emergency alerts.
The test takes place during Emergency Preparedness Week, which runs May 3 to 9 and encourages residents to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies, including making a plan, building an emergency kit, and staying informed.
Officials say those living with intimate partner violence, who may have an emergency phone hidden, are advised to power off those phones before the 12:55 p.m. test to avoid detection.
Understanding how alerts work is an important part of being prepared, and this week’s test is a reminder of the system’s role in keeping communities safe.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
