Emergency Alert Test Across Canada: What Preppers Need to Know
On May 8, 2025, Canadians will hear a loud alert on their phones, televisions, and radios. This is part of a nationwide emergency alert test. The test is being conducted by Alert Ready to make sure the system works well and that everyone knows what the alerts sound and look like.
Why This Test Matters for Preppers
As preppers, we know that being ready for emergencies is not just about having supplies. It’s also about knowing when danger is coming and how to respond quickly. The Alert Ready system warns Canadians about emergencies like natural disasters, terrorist threats, and Amber Alerts. Since it started in 2018, it has helped save lives during floods, wildfires, and other emergencies.
Martin Bélanger, director of public alerting at Pelmorex, says, “Testing the system regularly is critical to ensuring that it works as intended when lives are at stake.” This is a reminder that even the best systems need to be checked often.
What Will Happen During the Test?
- The test will happen at different times in each province or territory. Most places will get the alert in the early afternoon.
- The exact time for each area is posted on the Alert Ready website.
- When the test happens, you will hear a special alarm sound and see a message saying it is only a test.
- The message will be in English and French, depending on where you live.
The system is managed by Pelmorex Corp., working with emergency management officials and broadcasters across Canada. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) requires all wireless service providers to send out these alerts to compatible mobile devices.
Will Everyone Get the Alert?
Not everyone may receive the alert. Some people might miss it if their device is not compatible or if they are not connected to an LTE network. Alert Ready recommends checking with your wireless provider to make sure your device can get these alerts. This is a good reminder for preppers to double-check all their communication devices.
How Preppers Can Use This Test to Get Ready
Martin Bélanger also says, “We want Canadians to recognize the alert tone and understand what to do when they receive an alert.” For preppers, this is a perfect time to practice your emergency plans. Here are some steps you can take:
- Review Your Emergency Plan: Go over your family’s emergency plan. Make sure everyone knows what to do when an alert goes off.
- Practice Drills: Use the test as a chance to run a safety drill at home, work, or school.
- Check Your Devices: Make sure all your phones and radios are working and can receive alerts.
- Update Your Supplies: Take a look at your emergency kit. Replace anything that is expired or missing.
- Talk to Your Group: If you have a prepper group or neighbors you work with, make sure everyone is on the same page about what to do when an alert is received.
Bélanger encourages everyone to use this time to get ready: “We encourage everyone to take this opportunity to review their emergency plans and make sure they know what to do in the event of a real emergency.”
Why Testing Is Important for Survival
Testing the Alert Ready system is not just about checking technology. It’s about making sure people know what to do when real danger comes. The system has already helped save lives since 2018. As preppers, we should use every test as a chance to get better prepared and help others do the same.
Action Steps for Preppers
- Mark May 8, 2025, on your calendar for the alert test.
- Visit the Alert Ready website to find out the exact time for your area.
- Check your devices for compatibility and LTE connection.
- Review and practice your emergency plan with your family or group.
- Stay informed about how the Alert Ready system works and what types of emergencies it covers.
For more information about the test and the Alert Ready system, Canadians can visit the Alert Ready website. Remember, being prepared is more than just having supplies—it’s about knowing what to do and acting fast when every second counts.
