[EAS] Canada's New "EAS" Now Online

[Gary Timm]

Canada now has an "EAS", called the National Public Alerting System (NPAS), also known as "AlertReady".
Information on the system, including an audio file of the alert tone that is used, is at: www.AlertReady.ca
An FAQ on the site says:
As of March_31,_2015 cable and satellite companies, radio stations and over-the-air television stations and video-on-demand services in Canada are required to broadcast or distribute alerts that represent a threat to life or property.
Campus, community and native radio and television broadcasters as well as radio communication distributors will have an additional year to begin broadcasting alerts.

The 50-page ruling on the system by CRTC (Canada's "FCC") is found here:
http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2014/2014-444.htm
This document starts out with:
The Commission requires broadcasters to fully participate in Canada's National Public Alerting System. By 31 March 2015, broadcasters in Canada will be required to alert Canadians of imminent threats to life. Campus, community and Native radio and television broadcasters, as well as radiocommunication distribution undertakings, will be required to do so by 31 March 2016.
As a result of today's changes, Canadians across the country who are listening to radio or watching television will receive notification of imminent emergencies issued by public officials so that they can take appropriate action. Alert messages include messages relating to events such as tornadoes, floods, forest fires, industrial disasters and tsunamis.

Also, here is an article on the new system:
http://www.broadcastermagazine.com/news/canadas-national-emergency-alert-system-launches-today/1003548673/?&er=NA

Gary Timm, Broadcast Chair
Wisconsin EAS Committee