On Sunday, September 7, at 3pm, the UK Government will test the Emergency Alerts system.
The test will be sent to all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets across the UK. The alert will include a loud siren-like sound and vibration, and a message will appear on the screen confirming that this is a test. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds. No action is needed.
Depending on your phone’s features, the alert will work with screen magnification and may read the message out for you, having also overridden volume settings. The unique noise emitted by the phone should also be audible for those who use a hearing aid.
The Emergency Alerts system is an important tool for reaching the public in emergency situations. However, the alerts (including the test) can be switched off. Visit gov.uk/alerts/opting-out for step-by-step instructions.
Emergency Alerts will warn people via their mobile or tablet if there is a life-threatening emergency nearby. Only the Government and the emergency services can send them. People can check that an alert is genuine at gov.uk/alerts.
A government spokesman said: “Emergency Alerts will be just one of the ways the Government communicates with the public about emergency situations. So, if you don’t have a mobile phone, don’t worry – you’ll still be made aware through the media and local emergency services.”