Canadian emergency message map

Canadians are now able to access an interactive map that identifies which radio and television stations across Canada distribute emergency alert messages.

The map is an initiative of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

The site also lists cable and satellite companies that relay these messages.

Emergency alerts are issued by officials such as fire marshals, police services and government departments such as Environment Canada.

Alerts are issued for imminent threats, for example, to warn about floods, water contamination, and forest fires, along with Amber alerts for missing children.

Most Canadians are able to receive emergency alert messages, through participation of broadcasters and television service providers in the National Public Alerting System (NPAS).

“Canadians are now able to see exactly which broadcasters and television service providers across Canada distribute emergency alert messages,” said Jean-Pierre Blais, CRTC chairman and CEO.

“These alerts are an efficient and effective way to alert Canadians in an emergency situation, and in some cases save lives or prevent serious injury.”

Since 31 March 2015, most cable and satellite companies, radio stations and over-the-air television stations have issued emergency alert messages when required.

In 2014, the CRTC also began encouraging the use of digital media and mobile platforms to alert Canadians to imminent or unfolding dangers.

Public Safety Canada is the lead federal department responsible for emergency management and coordinates the development of policies for public alerting with federal, provincial and territorial stakeholders.

Since more than 80% of Canadians own a mobile device, the CRTC is currently examining whether wireless service providers should participate in the NPAS.

Image: Screenshot from the interactive emergency message map.