B.C. tests emergency alerts to cellphones, TV, radio

British Columbia will conduct a test of its Emergency Alert system on May 7, 2025, at 1:55 p. m. Pacific time, coinciding with Emergency Preparedness Week. The test will send alerts to compatible cellphones and interrupt radio and television broadcasts, assessing the system's readiness for real emergencies. Residents can participate in a survey afterward to evaluate the reach of the test message.

Since its launch in 2018, the B. C. Emergency Alert system has expanded to cover various threats, including floods, wildfires, and extreme heat. Last year, the federal government introduced an earthquake early-warning system, providing critical seconds of alert before shaking occurs. Alerts will be broadcast automatically at no cost to users, and participation requires cellphones to be connected to an LTE network.

Environment and Climate Change Canada oversees alerts for severe weather events, while police manage civil emergency and Amber Alerts. The test underscores the importance of timely information for public safety during emergencies.