B.C. conducts test of system, expands emergency hazards alert
The Province of B.C. is expanding use of the Alert Ready system in B.C. beyond tsunami warnings and Amber Alerts to also include imminent threats from floods and wildfires. The wireless alerting system is online and ready to be deployed for flooding, and will expand again to include wildfire threats by early June.
To receive alerts, mobile phones must be connected to an LTE cellular network (the device must be turned on and cannot be set to do not disturb or airplane mode), be alert-compatible, be within the alert area and have up-to-date cellular software. Alerts will be broadcast automatically at no cost to the user. To find out if your wireless device is compatible with the Alert Ready system, or for more information about the system, visit: AlertReady.ca.
British Columbians may wish to participate in a short online survey following the test on May 4 to help determine the reach of the Alert Ready test. This survey is administered by Public Emergency Alerting Services.
For tips on how to prepare an emergency plan and what to include in an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag, visit: http://www.preparedbc.ca