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When an alarm sounds Wednesday afternoon on your mobile phone it’s likely just a test.
Here’s what to know about the emergency alert test.
What’s happening?
At 1:55 p.m. PT on Wednesday, Nov. 20, a test of the National Public Alerting System will take place. The test is meant to ensure members of the public can receive important alerts in an emergency.
The test alert will be sent through to all compatible cellphones, and will appear on radio and TV broadcasts.
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What will the emergency alert test look or sound like?
The emergency alert test will show the following text:
“This is a TEST of the B.C. Emergency Alert system. This is ONLY a TEST. In an emergency, this message would tell you what to do to stay safe. This information could save your life. Click for more info: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/event/test/ This is ONLY a TEST. No action is required.”
If your phone isn’t set to silent, you will likely hear a loud chime suddenly. The same alert sound will also play on the radio and TV before the alert text is displayed.
What is the test for? How often does it happen?
The test is meant to check the alert system’s “readiness for an emergency” and highlight any adjustments needed.
The Emergency Alert system was first launched in April 2018 and is tested twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
The system was initially designed to warn of tsunamis but it has since been expanded to include floods, wildfires, earthquakes and extreme heat emergencies. The system can also be used for civil emergencies and Amber Alerts.
How do I know if my phone is compatible?
Cellphones must be connected to an LTE cellular network, be turned on, not on ‘do not disturb’ or airplane mode, be within the alert area and have updated software in order to receive alerts.
Can I share my feedback after the alert test?
You can share your thoughts on the alert system and test through an online survey found here.
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