Emergency Alerts system test

Published: 20 April 2023

The government’s new Emergency Alerts system is now live and will be tested at 3.00pm on Sunday 23 April.

The system will enable people to be contacted via their mobile phone when lives are in danger and will be used to warn you in the event of emergencies, such as severe flooding.

Emergency Alerts are sent to all compatible mobile phones within an area of risk. They don’t track your location, need your phone number, or collect personal data. Only the government and the emergency services will be able to send them. If you don’t have a mobile phone, you’ll be kept informed through other channels.

If you get an Emergency Alert on your phone, you’ll hear a loud, siren-like sound. A message on your screen will tell you about the emergency and how best to respond.

If you receive an alert, read it carefully and follow the instructions.

To find out more about Emergency Alerts and how to opt out, visit the Government website.