Alerts will display on phones, as well as play on radio and television broadcasts Wednesday afternoon, just before 2 p.m. It's part of a scheduled test of the provincial Emergency Alert System. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

only a drill

Test scheduled for B.C. Emergency Alert System

Nov 17, 2025 | 10:16 AM

NANAIMO — Expect a series of alerts on radio, television and on connected cell phones one afternoon this week.

The Province will test its B.C. Emergency Alert System on Wednesday, Nov. 19 and 1:55 p.m., with interruptions of broadcast media signals, along with cell phone alerts, planned.

The system is used to deliver potentially life-saving information to a large segment of the population in the shortest possible amount of time, and has been used in the past for earthquakes, wildfires and Amber Alerts.

“The alert is part of a national test of the National Public Alerting System, which is a collaboration among federal, provincial and territorial governments, as well as industry partners,” a release from the Province noted. It provides a standard alerting capability to rapidly warn the public of imminent or unfolding hazards, and threats to life and safety.”

On all mediums, simple messaging will be displayed indicating the alert is only a test and no action is required.

translation technology

Nanaimo chosen for RCMP pilot project for deaf & hard of hearing-related calls

13h ago

sex offender

Former Nanaimo teacher jailed for possession of child exploitation material

15h ago

major loss

Parksville industrial business loses $400,000 in account switch scam

18h ago

The message will be as follows:

“This is a TEST of the BC Emergency Alert System issued by the Province of British Columbia. This is ONLY a TEST. In an emergency, this message would tell you about the hazard and how to stay safe. This information could save your life. Visit https://www.emergencyinfobc.ca/test to learn more and give feedback on this test. This is ONLY a TEST.”

Tests are conducted in B.C. twice a year not only to ensure the required equipment works, but also to increase awareness about the system overall.

Past alerts on central Vancouver Island have been connected to Amber Alerts, as well as potential flash flooding notifications.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is responsible for issuing alerts related to weather and other atmospheric conditions, while RCMP assume responsibility for civil emergencies and Amber Alerts.

A different federal system handles earthquake notifications.

We’re on Bluesky! Stay up to date on news across central Vancouver Island through Bluesky, by following @NanaimoNewsNOW.bsky.social.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook