Alberta emergency alert test to be held today at 1:55 p.m.

By Rob Vogt
At 1:55 p.m. today, cell phoners will go off, messages will flash across television screens and more as Alberta will take part in a scheduled test of the National Public Alerting System.
An Alberta Emergency Alert test will be issued at 1:55 p.m. across multiple channels including television, radio, wireless devices, websites, social media, the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app and directly to compatible cellphones across the province.
“While alert interruptions can be inconvenient, these tests are essential. They help us identify and resolve technical issues, ensuring the system functions properly when it matters most. Regular testing, typically held in May and November, is a key part of keeping Albertans informed during real emergencies such as tornadoes, wildfires, floods and Amber Alerts,” said Mike Ellis, minister of public safety and emergency services, in a statement on Nov. 18.
“To stay connected, I urge all Albertans to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app, which delivers critical warnings directly to your phone. To receive alerts, your mobile device must be compatible, connected to an LTE 4G network or higher, or connected to Wi-Fi with the app installed. If your phone is on silent, the alert will still appear but may not produce sound.”
Ellis added this test is also a valuable opportunity to talk with household, friends and coworkers about emergency preparedness.
Questions to ask include:
• Do you have an emergency kit with enough supplies for at least 72 hours?
• Have you included essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries and a first aid kit?
• Do you have copies of important documents and a list of emergency contacts?
• Is your kit stored in an easy-to-access location and does everyone know where it is?
“Preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple steps like having an emergency plan and essential supplies can make a big difference to protect yourself and your household,” said Ellis.