U.S. Sets Example for Wireless Alerts Without Sign-Ups

Those in the U.S. who might complain of automatically getting Amber Alerts on their cellphones may want to look north a bit. In Canada, the public must sign up to get the alerts. Through Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) in the U.S., most cellphone users are automatically set up to get the alerts.  

The mother of a missing child wants the same type of situation in Canada. Crystal Dunahee told CBC News, “It’s doable. It shouldn’t be a choice.” Dunahee’s son has been missing since 1991. “Time is crucial. And you could have seen that vehicle going by, but you didn't know because you didn't get the alert,” said Dunahee of the current system.

Well less than 1 percent of Canadians have signed up to receive Amber Alerts on their cellphones. Canada is testing a system that would be similar to the U.S. system, and distribute Amber Alerts and other emergency alerts without requiring sign-ups.