This release was issued under a previous government.

The Alberta government is partnering with Astral Out-Of-Home, a division of Bell Media, as well as Facebook and TELUS, to expand the distribution of its Alberta Emergency Alerts, and particularly AMBER alerts, through social media and technology to reach more Albertans.

Astral Out-Of-Home will broadcast AMBER alerts on their outdoor, digital billboards in Edmonton and Calgary. In May, Facebook started delivering AMBER Alerts to mobile users’ News Feeds based on their location across Canada to increase the number of people who receive AMBER Alerts.

“Time is critical when a child has gone missing, which is why I’m pleased our government is partnering with these companies to reach Albertans as quickly as possible.”

Deron Bilous, Minister of Municipal Affairs

“Alberta Emergency Alert is an important tool for protecting Albertans and we are happy to be a part of this action plan. Through our digital boards in Calgary and Edmonton we are able to reach thousands of Albertans and rapidly spread the word about missing children and other potential threats.”

Luc Quétel, President, Astral Out-of-Home, a division of Bell Media

“When a child is abducted, the most valuable thing we can do is spread the word as quickly as possible. By getting the right information to the right people at the right time through targeted AMBER Alerts on Facebook, we hope to reunite missing children with their families faster.”

Kevin Chan, Head of Public Policy, Facebook Canada

“More and more Albertans rely on their mobile devices for breaking news and alerts. Highlighting the Alberta Emergency Alert app on our feature page will help increase the number of Albertans and TELUS customers receiving lifesaving information when every second counts.”

Kenneth Haertling, Chief Security Officer, TELUS

As summer brings more hazards, such as wildfires, tornados and floods – it’s important Albertans stay informed on potential emergencies in their area. Albertans are encouraged to follow Alberta Emergency Alert online or download the smartphone app to stay informed on emergencies in their area. So far, more than 50,000 Albertans have the app and receive critical information that helps protect them and their families.

Since 2011, Alberta Emergency Alert has issued alerts through radio, television and online to warn the public of emergencies.