The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission is seeking public input on ways to improve the country’s emergency alert system.
In a statement released Tuesday, the CRTC announced a national consultation aimed at strengthening the National Public Alerting System (NPAS), which is used to warn Canadians of severe weather, natural disasters and other urgent threats to public safety.
The Commission is reviewing how alerts are distributed and whether they can be made more effective, inclusive, and accessible, including the possibility of broadcasting alerts in languages that better reflect local communities.
“The goal is to ensure public alerts are reaching everyone, in every corner of the country, especially during emergencies when time is critical,” the CRTC said.
The NPAS is a joint responsibility between federal, provincial and territorial agencies. The CRTC’s role involves requiring television, radio, cable, satellite, and wireless providers to carry alerts.
Canadians have until Oct. 14, 2025 to submit feedback. Contributions can be made online through the CRTC’s website or CRTC Conversations platform, by mail, fax, or via sign language video links.
The consultation is part of the CRTC’s broader Consumer Protections Action Plan, a multi-pronged effort to enhance public safety and communications infrastructure nationwide.
Additional information is available in American Sign Language (ASL) and Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ). First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities can contact the CRTC’s Indigenous Relations Team for assistance with submissions, including oral interventions.
More details on how to participate can be found at: crtc.gc.ca.