Port Coquitlam to test emergency alert system on Oct. 15

The City of Port Coquitlam will send a city-wide test alert through its Alertable emergency notification system on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 10:30 a.m., following the ShakeOut BC earthquake drill. It will be the system’s fourth public test. Alertable is designed to provide residents with timely local information during emergencies, including evacuation alerts and orders.

The city asks residents to follow the test instructions carefully so it can confirm the system is working properly. Do not call 9-1-1 when the test notification arrives. The word “TEST” will be clearly marked in both text messages and voice recordings. Messages during an actual emergency will not include that word and will instead give specific details and instructions.

**How to prepare**

Residents registered for the Alertable app are encouraged to make sure push notifications are enabled and that the app is up to date. Anyone who has not used it recently should re-download it, as some devices automatically offload unused apps.

**Why Alertable matters**

Alertable helps residents stay informed during emergencies such as earthquakes. It provides clear, actionable information, including evacuation, lockdown or avoidance instructions. Download the app at portcoquitlam.ca/alertable (https://portcoquitlam.ca/alertable).

**Download the app and enter the draw**

Residents who download Alertable by Oct. 15 will automatically be entered to win an emergency kit for two people. Current app users will also be included in the draw.

**Using the Alertable app**

Alertable delivers alerts specific to Port Coquitlam and is separate from the national Alert Ready system, which provides province-wide notifications. Alertable features include critical alerts for large-scale emergencies, which can override silent mode if enabled; location-based alerts for a user’s current location or anywhere in the city; and customizable notifications for advisories, disruptions and information alerts.

**Get prepared**

Being self-sufficient during an emergency helps the city focus resources where they are most needed. Preparedness resources include the Alertable emergency notification app at portcoquitlam.ca/alertable (https://portcoquitlam.ca/alertable); a free Community Safety course on Nov. 14, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon at No. 1 Fire Hall, 1725 Broadway St., with registration at portcoquitlam.ca/ep (https://portcoquitlam.ca/ep); and online tools and guides at portcoquitlam.ca/ep (https://portcoquitlam.ca/ep), including the Are You Prepared? guide and the Emergency Preparedness Toolkit for Businesses.

For more information about the city’s emergency planning resources, visit portcoquitlam.ca/ep (https://portcoquitlam.ca/ep) or call 604.927.5466.