The Government will be testing the new Emergency Alert System on 23 April. This system is designed to warn people of dangerous situations that may result in danger to life.
You may get alerts about:
Emergency alerts will only be sent by:
Your mobile phone or tablet may:
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.
When you get an alert, stop what you’re doing and follow the instructions in the alert.
If you’re driving or riding when you get an alert
It is illegal to use a hand-held device while driving or riding.
If you do not have a compatible device, you’ll still be informed about an emergency. The emergency services have other ways to warn you when there is a threat to life.
Emergency alerts will not replace local news, radio, television or social media.
If you have a vision or hearing impairment, audio and vibration attention signals will let you know you have an emergency alert.
Alert languages
Emergency alerts will be sent in English. In Wales, they may also be sent in Welsh.
See more information: National Emergency Alerts Factsheet.pdf