The Alberta Emergency Alert system will be tested on Wednesday, March 1, 2023.
The emergency alert test will be issued at 1:55 p.m. and distributed over television, radio, websites, social media, the emergency alert mobile app, and directly through compatible cellphones.
Test alerts are issued in May and November nationwide. This year’s alert is being done now to coincide with the official start of wildfire season.
“Tests help us fix any system issues to ensure alerts work when we need them. Tests also provide a valuable opportunity for Albertans to consider their own readiness to respond to an unexpected event like a wildfire,” said Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis in a statement.
“Our top priority is saving lives and protecting Albertans. That’s why I encourage you to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app to receive messages about life-threatening emergencies, such as tornadoes, wildfires, floods or Amber Alerts, directly to your cellphones. When faced with an emergency, always follow instructions from authorities and check for updated alerts.”
Alberta created the first emergency alert system in the country more than 30 years ago. Alerts are issued to provide critical information about urgent situations, where they are happening, and what actions to take in order to stay safe.
Cellphone alerts only work if the receiving cellphone or mobile app is compatible, on the LTE 4G network, turned on and connected to Wi-Fi. Cellphones set to silent will not play the alert tone, but will display the alert.
Albertans and Red Deer-North constituents can visit alberta.ca/beprepared to learn more about how to prepare for an emergency.