This Sunday, millions of people across the United Kingdom will experience a startling interruption as the government conducts a major test of its new emergency alert system. At precisely 3pm, compatible mobile phones will emit a loud, siren-like sound and display a prominent message, even if set to silent.
The nationwide exercise is designed to ensure the system's effectiveness in warning the public about life-threatening situations, such as severe flooding, wildfires, or other critical emergencies.
What Exactly Will Happen?
When the test alert arrives, your device will vibrate and produce a distinct, piercing sound that will last for approximately ten seconds. A message will appear on your screen reading: 'This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action.'
Who Will Receive The Alert?
The test will be broadcast to virtually all 4G and 5G mobile phones nationwide. The system operates by sending a broadcast signal directly to compatible devices, meaning it doesn't require any personal data like phone numbers or locations. If your phone is switched on and connected to a mast from any of the major networks, you will receive it.
Opting Out: Is It Possible?
While the government strongly advises against it, users do have the option to opt out. To silence the alert, you can search for 'emergency alerts' in your device settings and turn off 'severe alerts' and 'extreme alerts'. However, officials warn that doing so means you might miss vital, potentially life-saving information during a real crisis.
The new service is modelled on similar schemes already operational in countries like the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands, where they have proven instrumental in providing urgent public warnings.
