A massive emergency alert test will be sent out next week taking over television, radio, web feeds and smartphones.

November 28 at 1:55 p.m Manitobans will receive the message, though are encouraged to remain calm as the multi-media blast is only a test.

However, Southern Emergency Response Committee (SERC) Director Darin Driedger explains not all Manitobans will receive the emergency alert test message on their wireless device depending on device compatibility, connection to an LTE network, cell tower coverage and individual device software and settings.

"Especially in this year, for people who may not necessarily have a smartphone, whether it be a neighbour or friend, keep those people in mind when you get these alerts and make sure to check up on them and they're aware of the alert," Driedger says.

Manitoba Infrastructure’s Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) will be sending the emergency alert test message through Alert Ready, Canada’s emergency alerting system. It's the second test of the Alert Ready system in Manitoba this year. The first test occurred during Emergency Preparedness Week in May.

The Canadian-Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission currently requires that 50 percent of new devices available for sale in Canada must be compatible with Alert Ready. This requirement increases to 100 percent by April 2019. Over time, more devices will become compatible and more Manitobans will be able to receive emergency alerts on their wireless device.

Manitobans are encouraged to check their device compatibility on their wireless service provider’s website and ensure their device has the latest software update installed.

Feedback following the test will provide valuable information on the emergency alerting system. Manitobans are encouraged to provide feedback and a brief survey is available on Manitoba EMO’s website at www.gov.mb.ca/emo/.