The UK government is preparing for the second-ever national test of its Emergency Alert System, scheduled to occur on Sunday, September 7, at 3:00 PM. Millions of mobile phone users across the UK will receive the test alert, which is designed to enhance the country’s preparedness for emergencies.
What is the Emergency Alert System?
The Emergency Alert System is a critical public safety feature that alerts citizens of potential life-threatening events such as extreme weather, floods, or other emergencies. Mobile phones connected to 4G and 5G networks will vibrate and emit a loud siren-like sound, accompanied by a drill notification that appears on the screen.
What to Expect During the Test
The upcoming alert will last approximately 10 seconds and will be accompanied by the following message:
“This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby. You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Find practical advice on how to prepare for emergencies at gov.uk/prepare.”
For Welsh speakers, the message will also include a translation directing them to the Welsh version of the alert.
When Has the System Been Used Before?
Since its launch, the Emergency Alert System has been activated in critical situations:
- During extreme weather events like Storm Éowyn.
- In December 2024, alerts were sent to 3.5 million people in Wales and South West England due to Storm Darragh, which brought 90mph winds and tragically resulted in two fatalities.
- For localized emergencies, such as an unexploded World War II bomb discovered in Plymouth and flash flooding incidents in Cumbria and Leicestershire.
How to Manage Emergency Alerts
While alerts are highly encouraged to ensure safety, individuals can opt out if necessary. For example, those in sensitive or vulnerable situations, such as domestic abuse survivors, may choose to disable these notifications for privacy concerns. Instructions for managing alerts can be found on the official UK Government Alerts website.
Be Prepared: Learn More
To prepare for emergencies, the UK Government provides a wealth of resources on their official preparedness site. These tips can help you stay safe during extreme weather, flooding, or other crises.
If you’re looking for a practical resource to keep your emergency essentials organized, consider the “Lifeline Emergency Preparedness Backpack”. This comprehensive kit includes first-aid supplies, water filtration, and other essentials to ensure your family’s safety in any unexpected situation. Check it out on Amazon here.
