Canadians across the country should prepare for a scheduled test of the national emergency alert system this week. The Alert Ready system will conduct its biannual public test on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, broadcasting simulated emergency messages to televisions, radios, and compatible wireless devices nationwide.
When to Expect the Test Alert in Your Region
The test will occur at different times across participating provinces and territories throughout the day. Each region will receive one test message during their scheduled time slot.
The complete schedule for November 19, 2025, is as follows:
- Alberta: 1:55 PM MST
- British Columbia: 1:55 PM PST
- Manitoba: 1:55 PM CST
- New Brunswick: 10:55 AM AST
- Newfoundland and Labrador: 10:45 AM NST
- Northwest Territories: 1:55 PM MST
- Nova Scotia: 1:55 PM AST
- Nunavut: 2:00 PM EST
- Ontario: 12:55 PM EST
- Prince Edward Island: 12:55 PM AST
- Quebec: 1:55 PM EST
- Saskatchewan: 1:55 PM CST
- Yukon: 1:55 PM YST
Why These Regular Tests Matter for Public Safety
These scheduled tests serve multiple critical purposes for Canada's emergency preparedness. Regular testing confirms the reliability of the entire alert system from end to end, ensuring that when real emergencies occur, the system functions properly.
The tests also increase public awareness about emergency preparedness and allow emergency management officials to practice issuing life-saving alerts. In 2025 alone, the Alert Ready system delivered more than 895 emergency alerts for situations including tornadoes, wildfires, and AMBER alerts.
Understanding Wireless Alert Compatibility
Not all mobile devices will receive the test alert on November 19. Successful reception depends on several factors, including device compatibility, connection to LTE or 5G networks, and local cell tower coverage.
Unlike weather apps or other notification systems, Canadians cannot opt out of receiving Alert Ready messages, whether during tests or actual emergencies. This policy ensures that everyone receives potentially life-saving information during imminent threats to safety or property.
The Alert Ready system represents a collaboration between federal, provincial, and territorial governments, Pelmorex, broadcasters, and wireless service providers. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission requires that broadcasters and wireless providers issue at least one test alert annually, typically in May and/or November.
For ongoing updates about the Alert Ready system and future tests, Canadians can follow the official Alert Ready X page.
