Emergencies can strike without warning, and being prepared is crucial. Alert Ready is Canada’s national emergency alerting system. It plays a vital role in ensuring public safety by delivering critical alerts about potentially life-threatening situations via television, radio, and LTE-compatible wireless devices. Alert Ready alerts utilizes a distinct Canadian Alerting Attention Signal designed to capture attention through its unique tone and presentation.
The concept of a national public alerting system in Canada arose from the need to provide accurate and timely information to the public during emergencies. Disasters, severe weather events, and other emergencies can occur with little warning, making it essential to have a robust system in place.
The Alert Ready system, officially known as the Canadian National Public Alerting System (NPAS), has been a cornerstone of Canada's emergency preparedness strategy for years. It is a collaborative initiative between federal, provincial, and territorial emergency management officials, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the broadcasting industry. Its primary purpose is to deliver critical, life-saving emergency alerts to Canadians through various communication channels, ensuring the timely and effective dissemination of vital information during emergencies.
The development of the Alert Ready system began in the early 2000s, recognizing the need for a coordinated and effective way to communicate with the public during emergencies. By 2010, the groundwork for a national public alerting system was laid, and Alert Ready was officially launched in 2014. The first public tests took place in 2015, primarily focusing on television and radio broadcasts to ensure technical functionality and public awareness.
In May 2018, Alert Ready expanded to include wireless public alerts (WPAs). This advancement significantly enhanced public safety by delivering alerts directly to individuals via mobile devices, ensuring rapid dissemination of critical information. The introduction of wireless alerts marked a milestone in the evolution of the system, demonstrating Canada's commitment to leveraging modern technology for public safety.
Pelmorex, the parent company of The Weather Network and MétéoMédia, operates the Alert Ready system. Pelmorex plays a crucial role in disseminating alerts across various platforms, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of alerts to a broad audience across Canada. Their expertise in broadcasting and technology ensures that the Alert Ready system remains a vital tool in Canada’s emergency preparedness strategy. The system's continuous evolution, driven by technological advancements and the expertise of Pelmorex, highlights Canada's commitment to protecting its citizens and providing timely and accurate information during emergencies.
During an Alert Ready alert, all alerting distribution methods activate simultaneously across radio, television, wireless devices, and mobile apps. This synchronized approach ensures that alerts reach a large audience promptly. The NPAS Common Look and Feel Guidance standardizes how alerts are presented across different platforms, maintaining consistency and clarity for the public.
Alert Ready alerts begin with the Canadian Alerting Attention Signal, a unique sound designed to command attention. This signal is a critical component of the Canadian alerting system, ensuring that viewers watching TV or listening to the radio are alerted to an imminent test or emergency message. On television, viewers will see either a full-screen alert or a partial screen with scrolling text detailing the test message. Those listening to the radio will hear an audio recording of the test message.
Alert Ready conducts regular tests, which are broadcast in multiple ways. To know more about the testing of Alert Ready, check out our latest blog: Alert Ready Tests: Why Canada’s Emergency Alert System is Tested Regularly.
Below is an example of what a wireless public alert (WPA) test alert looks like. This example is from the May 2024 test:
More examples of the Alert Ready test alerts can also be found in Alertable. This example was from the test performed on May 8, 2024: Test Message
Regular Alert Ready tests are essential to maintaining an effective public alerting system. These tests ensure that the alerting infrastructure remains operational, raise public awareness, and provide an opportunity for preparedness practice. They serve as reminders to review personal, business, and community emergency plans, check device compatibility, and stay informed about how to receive alerts.
By participating in Alert Ready tests and staying informed, Canadians contribute to a safer, more resilient country. These efforts ensure that when real emergencies occur, people can respond swiftly and effectively, safeguarding lives and communities.
For more insights regarding the Alert Ready test, check out our recent survey: 2024 Alert Ready Emergency Alert Test
To receive Alert Ready tests and emergency alerts, Canadians should ensure their devices are compatible with the system. This includes having a smartphone capable of receiving wireless public alerts (WPAs) and configuring settings to allow these alerts. Additionally, staying informed through local emergency preparedness resources and official channels can enhance emergency response readiness.
For those whose cell phones are not compatible with the Alert Ready system, there are several alternative ways to stay informed:
For additional information on how to receive alerts, read our guide: How to Get Emergency Alerts on Smartphone.
In 2023, Alert Ready played a crucial role in public safety by issuing a total of 1,086 alerts across Canada. These alerts covered a range of emergencies, demonstrating the system's importance. Breakdown of alerts issued in 2023:
The variety and frequency of alerts in 2023 underscore the importance of Alert Ready. Each alert represents a coordinated effort to inform and protect the public, reinforcing the system’s role in emergency preparedness.
Canada’s Alert Ready system has evolved significantly since its inception, incorporating modern technology to enhance public safety. By understanding the system's history and functionality, participating in regular tests, and taking proactive steps to stay informed, Canadians can contribute to a safer, more resilient country.
The expansion of Alert Ready to include WPAs has been a game-changer, ensuring that alerts reach individuals in real-time. As individuals and communities, staying informed and prepared is our responsibility. By embracing the Alert Ready system, Canadians can ensure they are well-equipped to respond to any emergency that may arise.