Albertans are encouraged to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app. Courtesy/Alberta government

By Erika Rolling

PROVINCE

Alberta Emergency Alert test scheduled for Wednesday afternoon

Nov 20, 2024 | 1:00 PM

An Alberta Emergency Alert will be sent to phones and other wireless devices, heard on radio, seen on television and get posted to social media on Wednesday at 1:55 p.m. as part of the system’s regular testing.

The test, usually scheduled for May and November, gives the government a chance to fix any problems that crop up so that it works when needed.

To receive an alert on a mobile phone, it must be compatible with the system, connected to an LTE 4G network or higher or connected to Wi-Fi with the Alberta Emergency Alert app installed.

For those that set their device to silent, it will display the alert but may not play the notification sound.

Mike Ellis, Alberta’s public safety and emergency services minister, said in a statement the alert provides an opportunity to prepare for a future emergency.

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“The test alert is also a great time for Albertans to talk to their family, friends and colleagues about emergency preparedness and to start making a plan,” Ellis said.

Ellis encouraged Albertans to get the Alberta Emergency Alert app on their smartphones and other smart devices to make sure they get all tests, and real alerts when needed.

“There are a number of simple steps we can all take to be more prepared. Emergencies can strike without warning, but with some planning, we can reduce the impact on our lives and protect the people we care about,” he added.