The Canadian Radio-Television and Telecom (CRTC) requires wireless service providers and broadcasters to send at least one test alert per year, either in May during Emergency Preparedness Week and/or in November. Participation in the testing of Alert Ready is at the sole discretion of each provincial and territorial emergency management organization (EMO).

The test message will simulate an emergency alert, beginning with the alert tone, known as the Canadian Alert Attention Signal. The message will indicate that it is a test and does not require action from the public.

Testing of the Alert Ready system provides the opportunity to:

• Increase public awareness about the system and spark emergency preparedness conversations, so that Canadians can be ready and prepared in the event of an actual emergency.
• Validate the effectiveness and reliability of the system to ensure it operates as intended from end to end.
• Provides an opportunity for Emergency Management officials to practice sending alerts to the public

Alert Ready was developed in collaboration with federal, provincial, and territorial government agencies, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers. Each stakeholder has a unique and important role to play in the Alert Ready process.

Given the importance of warning Canadians of imminent threat to the safety of life and property, Canadians do not have the option to opt-out of this essential life-saving service. In 2022, the Alert Ready system delivered more than 820 public emergency alert messages to Canadians. A breakdown of alert types that were issued by province and territory can be found here.

For ongoing updates about the test, follow the official Alert Ready Twitter page

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Here are five tips to keep you and your furry family members safe in the event of an emergency:

1. Put together an emergency preparedness kit containing everything you, your family, and your pets will need in the first 72 hours of an emergency. You should check your emergency kit at least twice a year and update it as necessary.
2. Have an evacuation plan in place that includes your animals. Check to ensure evacuation destinations accept pets.
3. Ensure your dog or cat is wearing a collar with an identification tag, ideally with your phone number or the number of a relative outside your area in case you can’t be reached by phone. It’s also important to have your pet microchipped to help increase the chances of being reunited in an emergency.  
4. Keep a current photo of your pet with you. Make sure it includes their name, address, and a brief description, including any unique markings, in case you need to claim your pet or share information about your lost pet during an emergency.
5. Post an emergency decal on your front door to make first responders aware there are pets inside the home. If an emergency like a fire happens when you’re not home, this helps improve the chances your pets will be rescued or receive the care they need. To request a free emergency decal, visit ontariospca.ca/ep

“We urge people to take the time to plan for the unexpected. By having a plan in place and the necessary emergency supplies to shelter in place, you will be in a better position to help the ones you love, including your pets,” says Jane McCamus, Manager, Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre.

“We are proud to partner with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society in observing Emergency Preparedness Week this May,” says Rob Grimwood, President, Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. “As a non-profit organization committed to fire and life safety and the well-being of our community, we recognize the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters, including those that may impact our furry friends. By working together with the Ontario SPCA, we aim to raise awareness and promote preparedness measures that ensure the safety and welfare of both people and animals during times of crisis. This collaboration reflects our shared dedication to safeguarding lives, including those of our beloved pets, and underscores our commitment to being proactive in safeguarding our community’s welfare.”

For more emergency planning resources, and to request a free emergency decal to place on your front door to let first responders know there are pets inside, visit ontariospca.ca/ep

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By taking a few simple steps, residents can become better prepared to face a range of situations, anytime, anywhere. It is important to:

• Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters or emergencies can be similar, knowing the risks specific to the community and region can help you better prepare. Muskoka is prone to extreme weather and power outages. It’s important to know how to react to these situations, but to also be prepared for the less likely occurrences as well.
• Make a plan – A plan helps you and your family know what to do what a situation occurs. Create and practice your home escape plan regularly.
• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit – During an emergency, ensure you have the basic supplies needed to support you and your family. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours in an emergency.
• Download the Voyent Alert app – Create location-based notifications for members of your family and receive alerts to your home phone, cell phone and/or email when an emergency occurs.

To learn more about being prepared, visit bracebridge.ca/emergencepreparedness.

“This Emergency Preparedness Week, I encourage everyone to take concrete actions to be better prepared. Do your part to prepare and protect yourself and your family for every situation.”

– Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge

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