Emergency alert test coming to Manitoba phones, radio, TV on Wednesday

No need to study, but the province will be issuing a test today.

A test of the National Public Alerting System will interrupt radio and television broadcasts and take over compatible cellphones around Manitoba on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 1:55 p.m.

The province says cellphones will receive an alert that reads:

“This is a test of the Alert Ready national public alerting system issued by the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization. This is only a test. If this had been an actual emergency or threat, you would now hear instructions that would assist you to protect you and your family. This is only a test, no action is required.”

Manitoba tests its emergency alert system twice a year to ensure the system is working properly on radios, cable and satellite television, websites, and compatible wireless devices through the Alert Ready System.

“The purpose of the test is to validate all components of the system and fix any issues to ensure it will work properly during an actual emergency. By running these tests, we also get valuable information and feedback that will help improve the system,” the province says.