Testing Canada's emergency alert system: Here's what you get in Quebec

Canada's national public warning system, Alert Ready, will launch a nationwide test on May 8.

Sound like an emergency alert with this unique tone on TV, radio and compatible wireless devices.

“The Alert Ready system is an important service that helps keep Canadians safe,” Martin Belanger, director of public alerts for Pelmorex, said in a press release Monday. “Testing Raises Awareness of Alert Ready System.”

“And to confirm that it works as planned,” he added. “In the event of an actual emergency.”

Reminder: can # Test alert of #Warning is ready system on Wednesday, May 8.

Find out which province/territory is participating: https://t.co/tNJXtLcRfY https://t.co/Ug7sRy8hKO

— Alert Ready (@AlertReady) May 6, 2024

The Alert Ready system alerts Canadians to AMBER alerts for tornadoes, floods, wildfires and more. is intended to convey important and potentially life-saving warnings such as

The challenge message will be sent to Quebecers on Wednesday at 1:55 p.m.

It's part of Canada's Emergency Preparedness Week, May 5-11.

Minister responsible for Canada's Pacific Economic Development Agency and Canada's Minister for Emergency Preparedness Harjit S. “The safety of Canadians is our top priority,” Sajjan said.

“That's why the Canadian government is building and testing its capacity to share timely information with Canadians.”

In 2023, Alert Ready issued more than 1,000 emergency alerts across Canada.

Montreal will also hold its annual warning siren test on Wednesday

On May 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the city will coordinate a warning siren test.

This simulation is to raise awareness of how to stay safe during a toxic release incident.

“The safety of all citizens is a priority,” Alain Vaillancourt, member of the executive committee responsible for public safety, said in a press release. “Residents should be prepared to respond in the event of a toxic release.”

“That is why we are actively working with industrial plants to coordinate technical tests in potentially affected areas.”

As part of this simulation, the ten participating plants may take turns to sound the alarm.

These warning sirens are designed to let people know that they need to take shelter immediately.

● Enter the nearest building as quickly as possible.
● Close all doors, windows and ventilation systems.
● Avoid picking up your children from school to avoid danger
to yourself or your children.
● Keep phone lines free.
● Follow the instructions issued by the authorities