Emergency Alert Service Test
On 23rd April 2023 at 3 pm, the UK government is testing an emergency alert service that will cause mobile phones to sound an alarm. Emergency Alerts is a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby. The government does not need to know your phone number or location to send you an alert. In an emergency, your mobile phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.
What will happen when I get an emergency alert?
On 23 April 2023 and if there is an emergency alert after this date, your mobile phone or tablet may: make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent, vibrate or read out the alert. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds. An alert will include a phone number or a link to the GOV.UK website for more information. You’ll get alerts based on your current location – not where you live or work. You do not need to turn on location services to receive alerts. The alert will say:
“This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there is a life-threatening emergency nearby. In an actual 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.”
There is more information, along with a demonstration of the alert here: About Emergency Alerts – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Who will send emergency alerts?
Emergency alerts will only be sent by the emergency services, government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies. You may get alerts about:
- severe flooding
- fires
- extreme weather
Domestic Abuse
Some victims of domestic abuse may have a mobile phone that is concealed from an abuser. If this phone is turned on the alarm will sound. Mobile phones or tablets do not have to be connected to mobile data or wifi to get alerts. Refuge has published a video guide to managing emergency alerts: Managing Emergency Alerts on your phone to stay safe if you’re experiencing domestic abuse – YouTube
The West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner’s office also offers advice and how you can opt out: Domestic abuse victims urged to disable Government’s emergency alert system – West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner (westmidlands-pcc.gov.uk)
