Don’t be alarmed if an emergency alert pops up on your mobile phone this week – it’s only a test.
B.C. will be carrying out its biannual test of its wireless alerting system on Wednesday, Nov. 25 at 1:55 p.m.
During the test, an alert will be sent to mobile phones, and will also be broadcast on radio and television stations.
The test message will read: “This is a TEST of the British Columbia Emergency Alerting System, issued by Emergency Management British Columbia. This is ONLY a TEST.
“If this had been an actual emergency or threat, you would now hear instructions that would assist you to protect you and your family. For further information, go to www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca. This is ONLY a TEST, no action is required.”
The system is part of the national Alert Ready system, meant to improve public safety in the event of an emergency. The system was launched in B.C. on April 6, 2018.
Wednesday's test was originally scheduled to take place last May, but was cancelled across Canada due to COVID-19.
In order to receive alerts, mobile phones must be connected to a cellular network, be alert compatible, be within the alert area and have up-to-date cellular software.
Alerts will be broadcast automatically, at no cost to the user.
To find out if your wireless device is compatible with the Alert Ready system, or for more information about the system, visit www.alertready.ca.
