A test of Alert Ready will sound in Ontario today at 12:55 p.m.
“The test message will simulate an emergency alert, beginning with an alert tone. The message will indicate that it is a test and does not require action from the public,” the Anishinabek Police Service said in a news release.
Please do not call 9-1-1 for information about the test. Using 9-1-1 for non-emergency calls could delay help for people experiencing real emergencies.
Those living with intimate partner violence may have an emergency cell phone hidden, the release said.
During the Alert Ready test, these phones will go off, potentially putting lives at risk. If you are using a hidden phone or tablet as part of your personal safety planning, take steps now to stay safe during the alert: be sure to power these devices off to avoid discovery.
Alert Ready is Canada’s emergency alerting system, the release said.
Alert Ready delivers critical and potentially life-saving alerts to Canadians through television, radio and LTE-connected and compatible wireless devices.
“The Alert Ready system was developed with many partners, including federal, provincial and territorial emergency management officials, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers. Together, these partners work to ensure Canadians receive alerts immediately and know when to take action to stay safe,” the release said.
You can check your cell phone’s compatibility here.
