An Alert Ready public awareness test message that includes compatible cell phones and smartphones will be broadcast for the first time today, May 9, at 1:55pm. The test is part of National Emergency Preparedness Week.
“This expansion of the warning system for emergencies and disasters will now include compatible wireless devices, in addition to radio, cable and satellite TV distribution and web feeds,” said Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler, minister responsible for emergency measures. “In Manitoba, the province and Environment and Climate Change Canada are currently the only agencies authorized to issue emergency messages using Alert Ready.”
Providers of long-term evolution (LTE) networks in Manitoba activated the technology in early April. Individuals with compatible wireless devices connected to an LTE network will be able to receive emergency alerts if they are in the geographic broadcast area.
The emergency alert message will begin with a distinct sound and vibration, followed by an emergency alert banner displayed on the device and a message outlining the nature of the alert. For television and radio, the test emergency alert will begin with the distinct sound, followed by the message. The emergency alert may be displayed as a full screen message or as a crawler along the bottom of the television. The Alert Ready system notifies Canadians of potentially life-threatening events. With the recent inclusion of wireless public alerting, these alert messages are able to reach more Manitobans when an emergency arises.
“When the emergency alert comes through your device, be sure you are able to safely read it,” said Schuler. “If you are driving, pull over, be safe and be prepared.”
For more information on public alerting in Manitoba, visit www.gov.mb.ca/emo or www.alertready.ca.
