Canary Islands to Conduct Emergency Alert System Drill on September 26

The Canary Islands are gearing up for a significant test of their emergency alert system scheduled for September 26. This initiative is designed to enhance public safety and preparedness in the face of potential disasters, particularly in a region known for its unique geological features.

Garachico to Host Simulated Volcanic Eruption

The drill will take place on the island of Tenerife, specifically in the town of Garachico, where a simulated volcanic eruption will be staged. This exercise is organized by the Cabildo Insular in collaboration with the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canaries. The alert will be activated by CECOES 112 from 09:00 to 13:00, during which the ES-Alert system will send out up to three notifications to mobile phones within the designated coverage area.

This drill is part of a comprehensive national civil protection strategy that has been progressively implemented across various islands over the years. The primary objective is to enhance public trust in a system that has already proven its effectiveness during previous emergencies, including wildfires that impacted La Palma and Tenerife.

Understanding the Alert Mechanism

Most mobile devices equipped with a data connection will automatically receive the emergency alert without requiring any additional applications or registrations. Users are encouraged to ensure that emergency alerts are enabled on their devices. For those using Android 11 or later or iOS 15.6 or later, this feature is typically activated by default, making it easier for residents to stay informed.

However, it is crucial to understand that if a device is turned off or set to airplane mode, the alert will not be received. Additionally, individuals who are outside the coverage area at the time of the alert will receive the notification once they enter the designated zone, ensuring that no one is left uninformed.

How to Respond to the Alert

When the alert is activated, users will see the word “TEST” displayed on their screens, accompanied by a beep and vibration to capture their attention. To dismiss the alert, users must tap “Accept.” Authorities have stressed the importance of not calling or responding to 112 unless there is a genuine emergency. For those who are driving at the time of the alert, it is advisable to pull over safely before checking the notification to avoid distractions.

To mitigate any potential anxiety among older adults or those less familiar with technology, authorities recommend providing prior explanations about the alert system. This proactive approach aims to ensure that everyone understands the purpose of the drill and the nature of the alerts.

Enhancing Safety Through Complementary Measures

The ES-Alert system is designed to enhance, rather than replace, existing communication methods during emergencies. Official announcements, media reports, social media updates, and public address systems will continue to play vital roles in disseminating information to the public. This multi-channel approach ensures that critical information reaches as many people as possible, regardless of their preferred communication method.

One of the key advantages of the ES-Alert system is its ability to deliver immediate self-protection instructions to individuals in affected areas. By sending mass notifications within seconds to all devices connected to 4G and 5G networks, the system ensures that essential information reaches recipients without delay, which can be crucial during emergencies.

Objectives of the Drill and Community Engagement

The primary objectives of the upcoming drill are twofold: to verify the operational effectiveness of the alert system and to familiarize the public with the notification process. Increased familiarity with such alerts can significantly reduce panic during actual emergencies, allowing individuals to respond more calmly and effectively.

Given the Canary Islands’ history of volcanic activity and other natural phenomena, enhancing citizen preparedness is a top priority for local authorities. Through these drills, officials aim to equip the population with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond appropriately to alerts that could be critical for their safety and well-being.

Key points

• The emergency alert system drill will take place in Garachico, Tenerife, on September 26.
• CECOES 112 will activate the ES-Alert system to send notifications to mobile devices.
• The drill is part of a national civil protection plan aimed at improving public safety.
• Most mobile devices will receive alerts without needing additional apps or registrations.
• The alert will display the word “TEST” and will require users to tap “Accept” to clear it.
• The ES-Alert system complements existing communication methods during emergencies.
• Drills aim to familiarize the public with alerts to reduce panic in real situations.