Canada’s emergency alert system to be tested in Ontario today. Here’s when

A test of the Emergency Broadcast Alert System is seen on a phone in Toronto on Wednesday, November 25, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn

Smartphones across Ontario will light up today for a test of the Alert Ready system.

The national test of the public emergency alert system will sound off on compatible devices at 12:55 p.m. and feature a distinctive tone with information about the test displayed on the screen.

Televisions, radios, and other wireless devices connected to the internet will also broadcast the alert.

Only authorized government agencies can issue the alerts, which are typically issued when there is a threat to life.

Emergency alerts have been issued 230 times in Ontario this year, including 214 alerts for tornadoes, six for civil emergencies and six for thunderstorms, according to the Alert Ready website. Two Amber alerts and two terrorism alerts have also been issued this year.

Alert Ready was developed by federal, provincial and territorial emergency management officials, as well as Environment and Climate Change Canada, Pelmorex, the broadcasting industry and wireless service providers.

You cannot opt out of receiving the emergency alert.

The test will be performed across the country with varying alert times.

For more information about accessibility, device compatibility, and national alert times, click here.