Nationwide alert test messages coming to cellphones on Wednesday
MEDICINE HAT, AB — Mobile phone users in Medicine Hat should not be alarmed if they get an emergency notification on their mobile phones on Wednesday.
A nationwide public alert test will be taking place on Wednesday as part of Emergency Preparedness Week. During the test, every compatible mobile device connected to a long-term evolution (LTE) network will receive the test alert.
All wireless service providers must distribute public emergency alert messages on their LTE networks, following a ruling from the Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission. The test will allow the public to be come familiar with how the alert messages will be delivered to their mobile devices, including the tone and vibrations which will distinguish them from regular text messages.
The messages will be identified as tests and will not require Canadians to secure their safety.