Canary Islands Government to Conduct ES-Alert Test

The Government of the Canary Islands will perform a new test of the ES-Alert system this Friday. This emergency notification service directly sends messages to mobile phones in Tenerife. Organised by the Ministry of Territorial Policy, Territorial Cohesion, and Water, the initiative is part of a simulated volcanic eruption exercise in Garachico, coordinated by the Cabildo of Tenerife. The tool, already operational across the archipelago, is part of the National Civil Protection System and aims to familiarise the public with its functionality.

Alert Messages Scheduled

According to the Directorate General of Emergencies, the Emergency and Security Coordination Centre (CECOES) 112 will issue three citizen alert messages between 9:00 and 13:00. Phones will receive the notification at the moment of sending or once they enter the operator’s coverage area. The alert will be displayed on the screen with a distinctive sound and vibration, which will only disappear upon pressing “accept.” The Government advises that if driving, motorists should park safely before reading and accepting the message.

Public Recommendations

Authorities have provided several guidelines for the public:

Elderly Individuals: It is advisable to explain the system to them in advance to avoid confusion or unnecessary alarm.
Languages: Phones set to English (or any language other than Spanish) will also receive the message in that language.
Compatibility: The majority of mobile phones with data connectivity are capable of receiving these alerts, provided the alert option is activated.

These tests are communicated in advance to inform the public about the exercise, preventing unexpected shocks.

A Tested Tool

ES-Alert is not new to the islands. It has already been used in real emergencies, such as the wildfires in La Palma and Tenerife, demonstrating its effectiveness for public protection. The Government emphasises that conducting regular tests is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and for helping the public adjust to this direct communication system in times of crisis. With the drill in Garachico, the Canary Islands reaffirms its position as a leader in civil safety and prevention, enhancing preparedness for natural phenomena such as eruptions or wildfires.