The third test for the National AlertReady system will take place in the province at 1:55 p.m. today.

During the test, people will hear an alert tone with a test message on their radio, TV and even on compatible cell phones.

Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness Jennifer Rice says people who didn’t get the alert during the last two tests, were likely not connected to the right cell networks.

“You should hear an audible noise unless it’s in silent mode and then you should feel a vibration. Mind you, if your phone is in airplane mode or if you are not connected to a network, and you’re only on the WiFi network, you will not receive the alert.”

Rice adds the system is being tested today to coincide with Emergency Preparedness Week, ahead of wildfire season.

“This is an important test. I think for British Columbians, the wildfires and floods of the last two years which have been unprecedented is enough to remind us that we all need to be prepared personally,” Rice added.

For a cellphone to get the alert, Rice says it has to be connected to an LTE or 4G network, and not just wifi. It also has to be updated with the latest software and within the area where the emergency is taking place.

You can get more details about the AlertReady system here.