By Charles Lefebvre

Nationwide alert test messages coming to cellphones on Wednesday

May 7, 2018 | 9:35 AM

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.

The tests get underway today in Quebec and Ontario, and in the remaining provinces and territories on Wednesday.

Medicine Hat Public Library Comic Con taking place May 4

1h ago

Young minds, big ideas: Elementary students learn about urban planning with 'Box City'

Apr 25, 2024

HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Summer pool hours extended and discounts applied as Big Marble Go Centre upgrades start

Apr 18, 2024

The tests on Wednesday will take place at 1:55 p.m. local time.

The alerts will also be distributed on television and radio at the same time.

The emergency alert messages will be issued by federal, provincial and territorial governments, along with emergency management officials, to warn of imminent threats, such as fires, tornadoes, floods, water contamination and Amber Alerts.