On Sunday 7 September at 3pm, the UK government will be carrying out a national test of the Emergency Alerts system. This system is designed to warn and advise people if there’s a danger to life nearby – such as severe flooding, fires or extreme weather.

What will happen during the test?

If your mobile phone or tablet is switched on and connected to the 4G or 5G network, you’ll receive a loud siren-like sound and a vibration, along with a message on your screen.

• The alert will last for about 10 seconds.
• You will not need to reply or take any action – it’s just a test.
• The message will make it clear that this is not a real emergency.

Why is this important?

In a real-life situation, Emergency Alerts can give you life-saving information quickly, wherever you are. You don’t need to sign up – they are sent automatically to compatible devices.

Will it cost anything?

No – Emergency Alerts are free and you won’t be charged for receiving them.

Can I opt out of the test?

Yes, there are ways of opting out. The charity Women’s Aid has produced a guide on how to disable the alert. This could help survivors of domestic abuse who may be keeping a phone hidden from an abuser. Find out more here: UK emergency alerts: How to stay safe – Women’s Aid

More information and support

You can find guidance, videos and campaign materials on the official GOV.UK website: www.gov.uk/alerts

You can watch a video with subtitles and British Sign Language (BSL) here:

The test is a great opportunity to make sure you and your family know what to expect, especially if loud alarms might startle someone. If you support vulnerable people or have family members who might be concerned, it’s worth letting them know in advance.

By being aware and prepared, we can all respond more quickly and calmly in a real emergency – and that can make all the difference.