Nova Scotia Expands Emergency Communication with New App
Nova Scotia has launched the NS Alert app, designed to strengthen emergency coverage across the province, especially in rural communities where cell service is limited. This new tool ensures residents stay connected and informed when it matters most.
Filling Gaps in Cellular Coverage
For years, rural Nova Scotians faced challenges receiving critical alerts due to poor or unreliable cell service. The provincial government says the new app helps bridge those gaps while broader infrastructure improvements continue.
Unlike the national Alert Ready system, which requires LTE or 5G networks, the NS Alert app works on older 3G devices and even Wi-Fi. This makes emergency alerts accessible in more areas, including zones with little or no cellular coverage.
Custom Alerts for Local Needs
Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland emphasized that the app is both flexible and user-friendly. Nova Scotians can customize notifications based on location, language, and the type of alert they want to receive.
Two categories of alerts will be available:
Critical Alerts – Similar to Alert Ready warnings, these include urgent emergencies.
Advisory Alerts – Updates on road closures, re-entry notices after evacuations, or community-specific information.
The app is already available for download on both the Apple Store and Google Play.
Ongoing Investments in Cell Infrastructure
The app complements the province’s broader effort to improve cell service. Last year, Nova Scotia announced a $18.6 million investment to build 27 new telecommunication towers, targeting rural dead zones.
In addition, a $47.3 million investment from October 2023 aims to connect 20,000 civic addresses and more than 1,000 kilometres of rural roads. Rogers has been tasked with upgrading existing tower sites, installing wireless broadband, and adding generators to improve reliability.
A Long Road Ahead
Minister Masland admits the journey to full coverage won’t be quick. “This is like climbing Mount Everest. We are at the bottom and working our way up,” she said.
While four mobile towers are expected to go live next spring, the remaining sites are scheduled for completion between summer 2026 and spring 2027. Once finished, 62% of underserved areas and 562 kilometres of rural highways will gain reliable service, with a long-term goal of reaching 99% coverage across Nova Scotia.
Building Safer, Connected Communities
With both new infrastructure and the NS Alert app, Nova Scotia is taking major steps to close the communication gap. For residents in rural communities, these changes promise safer, more reliable access to emergency information.
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