Emergency Alert Test Scheduled Across Majority of Canada Today

Today, the federal government is set to evaluate its ability to issue emergency alerts. Most Canadians across provinces and territories will receive a test alert on their cellphones, along with broadcasts on TV and radio. However, Ontario is the exception, with its test scheduled for May 15.

While provincial and territorial emergency management organizations routinely test the alert system, this marks the first time the federal government is assessing its alert issuance capacity.

Tests will be conducted in eight provinces and territories by federal authorities, with an additional four provinces and territories conducting tests under provincial and territorial jurisdiction.

The government highlights a recent agreement enabling the issuance of alerts on matters of national importance under federal jurisdiction.