New warning app tries to fill the cell covering holes in Nova Scotia

New NS Alert App Provides Emergency Reports to Nova Scotians

The provincial government has launched a new app aimed at providing Nova Scotians with enhanced access to emergency reports. The New NS Alert App is designed to bridge the gaps in cellular coverage, especially in rural areas where mobile service may be limited.

Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland stated that the app is compatible with older mobile phones using 3G networks or Wi-Fi, making it accessible in areas with low cellular coverage. This is a significant improvement over the existing National Alert Ready System, which relies on 5G or LTE networks not widely available in Nova Scotia.

The app delivers both ‘critical’ alerts similar to those issued by Alert Ready, as well as ‘advisory’ alerts for information on issues like evacuations and road closures. Users can customize the app to receive alerts based on their preferences for report types, communities, and language.

Download the New NS Alert App now from the Apple Store or Google Play to stay informed and prepared for emergencies.

Province Invests in Cell Tower Expansion

Last year, Nova Scotia announced a $18.6 million investment to construct 27 new telecommunication towers in rural areas, aiming to improve cellular coverage. This initiative comes in response to concerns raised by residents who did not receive emergency alerts during recent weather-related incidents.

While the improvements in cell coverage are crucial for public safety, Minister Masland emphasized that the process will be gradual and require time to address coverage gaps effectively. The government’s goal is to connect 99 percent of the province’s underserved areas, with ongoing efforts to expand coverage along primary roads and highways.

As part of the initial investment, Rogers was selected to upgrade existing towers and integrate them into their network, enhancing wireless broadband options and adding generators for increased reliability. The completion of these tower upgrades is expected to cover 62 percent of underserved areas and extend coverage to over 562 kilometers of roads by 2027.

While the journey to improving cellular coverage may be likened to climbing Mount Everest, Minister Masland remains optimistic about the progress being made to ensure the safety and connectivity of all Nova Scotians.

Additional information sourced from the Canadian Press. Rogers is the parent company of CityNews Halifax and 95.7 Newsradio.