If your smartphone sounds like a buzzing siren at 1:55 p.m. tomorrow, May 9, don’t be alarmed.
This is just a test — the first test of wireless emergency alerts in British Columbia issued by the national Alert Ready program.
The alert will also run on TV and radio.
Depending on settings, users with compatible devices connected to an LTE network will hear a tone similar to an ambulance alarm or feel a vibration for eight seconds.
Devices that are turned off won't receive the signal but phone users will hear their conversations interrupted by a sound similar to a call waiting tone. There is no charge for the alert, as it is not an SMS and does not use data like a text message.
To see if your smartphone is compatible and learn more about the program, including hearing the alert tone, visit www.alertready.ca
Initially wireless alerts will only be used for tsunami threats, but the province is considering expanding them to include other hazards and emergencies.
The alerts will contain instructions for a safe response and are broadcast automatically at no cost to wireless users. To receive the alerts, mobile devices must be connected to a cellular network, be alert-compatible and within the area affected by the alert.
