Emergency Alert system to be tested across TNRD next week

MERRITT — The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is advising residents that it will test its emergency alert system next week during Emergency Preparedness Week in B.C.

The Voyent Alert test will be staged on Thursday, May 7 at 10:30 am.  Voyent Alert is a free app that can be added to your phone by visiting the app store on your phone or through the TNRD emergency website at: eoc.tnrd.ca.

“It’s extremely important for residents to make sure that they are receiving factual information from official sources during an emergency, through channels like Voyent Alert,” said Colton Davies, TNRD Communications Manager.

The system is used to avoid the spread of misinformation by sharing trustworthy information on evacuation orders, alerts and other forms of emergency notices to residents.

Davies warns residents of the potential damage that can be caused by misinformation during emergencies saying, “if you come across an image or content online that seems sensational, doesn’t look quite right, or causes an emotional response, don’t share it right away. Take a few moments to fact check from official, trusted sources, and make sure the information you are seeing and sharing is accurate.”

B.C. will recognize Emergency Preparedness Week from May 3 to May 9. The TNRD says the week acts as a reminder to residents to consider preparing your family for potential emergencies by consulting the TNRD’s FireSmart webpage and putting together an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag for your household.