Emergency Alerting System to be Tested

Nova Scotia will test the new national emergency alerting system for radio and television broadcasters on Wednesday, March 16.

The Alert Ready system allows emergency management officials to send out public alerts in times of emergency. This national system includes private and public broadcasters in conjunction with government organizations.

"It is important to be able to provide information to the public in times of emergency," said Zach Churchill, Minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office. "Alert Ready is one of the many tools we use to help keep Nova Scotians safe."

The Emergency Management Office will issue a test at 1:55 p.m. on Wednesday, which will result in a loud noise followed by a message on radio and television.

EMO also uses social media and email broadcasts to emergency management leaders and first responders in times of emergency.

For more information on the national Alert Ready system, visit http://www.theweathernetwork.com/alert-ready

You can find helpful tips on preparing for emergencies at http://novascotia.ca/dma/emo/prepare_for_an_emergency/#knowtherisks