An investigation is underway after some Ontarians did not receive an emergency alert on their phones during a test of the system on Wednesday.
The country’s Alert Ready system was tested in the province on May 15, a week after Canadians in most provinces and territories received the alert test.
“We can confirm the test was issued and distributed to television, radio and compatible wireless devices. We are aware that some Ontarians are indicating they did not receive the test alert on their wireless device. Our wireless partners are working to identify the issue,” Alert Ready said on its website.
“Testing the end-to-end system allows us to ensure it is working as intended and to learn what areas need adjustments – in order to continuously enhance the system. Ongoing testing is an important step to ensure safety for all.”
Alert Ready delivers critical and potentially life-saving alerts to Canadians through television, radio and LTE-connected and compatible wireless devices, according to its website.
Provincial and territorial emergency management organizations already conduct regular tests of the system; last week was the first time the federal government tested its capacity to issue alerts.
Ottawa recently signed an agreement to issue alerts on information of national interest that falls within federal jurisdiction.
Wednesday’s test is scheduled to happen at 12:55 p.m. Eastern; the next test in Ontario is scheduled for Nov. 20 at the same time.
— with files from The Canadian Press