The alert system has been extended
Photo: Douglas Druen
Forest fire in Christie Mountain, August 2020
The British Columbia government is expanding the use of targeted cell phone notifications during emergencies to include floods and wildfires.
The Alert Ready system was previously used only for tsunami warnings, Amber Alerts and very rare police incidents.
The provincial government faced fierce criticism in November for not using the system during atmospheric rivers and after floods.
“The frequency of threats facing our communities is increasing due to factors such as climate change, and this expansion of the Alert Ready system in British Columbia will ensure that we have all the tools at our disposal to support public safety,” said Mike Farnworth. , Minister of Public Safety and Advocate General.
“While it is important to remember that public alarms are intended to supplement, but not replace, emergencies that have already been carried out by the Emergency Management BC and local authorities, the intrusive signals emit have unique advantages with their scope and impact. “
The wireless warning system is ready for deployment in the event of floods and will be expanded again to threaten forest fires in June.
A test of the warning system will be held on Wednesday at 13:55
To receive alerts, mobile phones must be connected to an LTE cellular network (the device must be switched on and cannot be set to no interference or airplane mode), be compatible with alerts, be in the alert area, and have pre-cellular date software. The signals will be broadcast automatically free of charge for the user.
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