I am autistic, and the sound emitted by the Alert Ready system in Canada often provokes panic attacks and can even trigger seizures. This tone, although designed to alert, can have the opposite effect on those with sound sensitivity, leading to extreme anxiety and panic. Rather than being helpful, it becomes a barrier that prevents us from processing critical emergency information and reacting appropriately.

While the Alert Ready system is undoubtedly a crucial tool that saves lives by providing timely warnings about weather conditions and Amber Alerts, its design is not all-inclusive. For many individuals, including those with autism or other sound sensitivities, the alert sound heightens distress or disorientation at a critical moment when clear thinking and fast reactions are necessary.

According to the National Research Council of Canada, over 500,000 Canadians are estimated to be on the autism spectrum. This number doesn’t include individuals with other sound sensitivities who may also be affected. This is a significant portion of the population who are left vulnerable each time an alert is broadcast.

The current system fails to accommodate these sound-sensitive members of our community. We respectfully request that the Canadian government and the agencies overseeing the Alert Ready system acknowledge and address this issue.

A potential solution could be offering an alternative tone or vibration alert that maintains the emergency's urgency but is more inclusive for sound-sensitive individuals. Another option could be a customizable alert system where users can select the type and volume of alerts they receive on personal devices, ensuring both safety and accessibility.

If a unified sound must be used, please have a pleasant one, similar to the Japanese system that is designed to notify without terrifying anyone.  https://youtu.be/IHdZs25w90s?si=WvHScEPQoHmX-Gq7

I am autistic and sound sensitive.  I am also very emotionally moved by music, which may be a form of synesthesia.  When I hear the Alert Ready tone, I panic and can not comprehend the message.  This is very dangerous.  And an accessibility problem.  

The attention signal is an 8-second sequence of alternating half-second duration complex tones, the first being a combination of tones at frequencies of B flat 932.33 Hz, C 1,046.5 Hz and G 3,135.96 Hz, and the second at A 440 Hz, E 659.26 Hz and G 3135.96 Hz (the same signal that was used by Alberta Emergency Alert).  

The B flat 932.33 Hz and E 659.26 Hz create a tritone, which creates extreme dissonance.  The B flat 932.33 Hz plus the A 440 Hz creates a semitone, also dissonant.

If they simply slowed the rate of the sound down to one full second to prevent hyperventilation, and removed the B flat 932.33 Hz, it would be tolerable.  It would be a consonant tone, and not frightening.  A very simple change.  It wouldn’t cost much, and would make the Alert Ready much more effective and accessible.  

The technology to provide multiple alert options is already available and can potentially be adapted quickly to mitigate this issue without disrupting the service's purpose. An inclusive Alert Ready system will ensure all Canadians, regardless of sound sensitivity, can receive emergency alerts without the associated stress or health risks.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the movement to enhance the inclusivity and effectiveness of Canada's Alert Ready system for everyone, especially the sound-sensitive community. Join us in urging the necessary changes to keep all Canadians safe and informed without unnecessary distress.