This Sunday, 23rd April, at precisely 3pm, a startling siren will blare from mobile phones across the United Kingdom. This is not a cause for alarm, but the first nationwide test of the UK's new Emergency Alerts service.
The system, designed to warn the public about life-threatening events nearby, will send a message to virtually all 4G and 5G mobile devices. The alert will override your phone's silent mode, emitting a loud, piercing sound that will last for about ten seconds. A message will appear on your screen with instructions on how to stay safe.
What Will the Alert Look and Sound Like?
You will hear a distinct, loud siren-like sound, even if your phone is set to silent. The vibration will accompany the sound for accessibility. On your screen, you will see a clear message that reads:
"This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening event 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."
Why Is This Test Happening?
The government initiative is modelled on similar systems already in place in countries like the US, Canada, and the Netherlands. The goal is to create a modern, reliable method to warn citizens of imminent dangers, such as:
- Severe flooding
- Extreme wildfires
- Terrorist incidents
By broadcasting directly to mobile phones, the service can reach a vast majority of the population within seconds, providing critical information that could save lives.
What Should You Do When You Get the Alert?
For this test, you simply need to acknowledge the alert by swiping it away or clicking 'OK' on your screen. Your phone will then return to normal. No further action is required.
It is crucial to remember that this is only a test. The government emphasises that you will not need to take any protective action during Sunday's trial run.
Who Will Receive the Alert?
The test will be received on the majority of 4G and 5G mobile phones in the UK. If your device is turned off or in airplane mode at 3pm, you will receive the alert when you next switch it on and connect to a network.
Some older devices that do not use 4G or 5G networks may not receive the alert. The government has stated that the service does not track your location or collect personal data; it broadcasts from mobile phone masts to every compatible phone in a specific area.
