Information on New National Emergency Alerts System
You may have seen in the media recently that the Government is introducing a new national emergency alerts system. We’ve put together some key information about this to help explain what it is, why it is happening, what to expect, and how to opt out if you want to.
There is going to be a test of a new national emergency alerts system on 23rd April at 3pm via a text message and siren sound on compatible mobile phones and tablets. This is a test a new UK government service that will alert the public if there is a danger to life nearby.
In an emergency, your mobile device or tablet will receive an alert on how to keep safe. This new service from the government was successfully trialled in 2021 and is now set to be rolled out across the UK in 2023.
Here’s a video about the alerts that might be helpful and can be shared: UK Emergency Alerts - YouTube.
Here is also some key information about the campaign:
This campaign will include information on how to opt out of the alerts. Meanwhile, here’s some information about changing phone settings if you don’t want to receive the alerts: How emergency alerts work - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The alerts will only come in English (or Welsh in Wales)
Emergency Alerts are text-based messages broadcasted from cell towers near an emergency – using 4G and 5G networks. The alerts are secure, free to receive, and one-way. They do not reveal your location and do not collect any personal data
Upon receipt of the notification, a phone or tablet will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent. The alert would include a warning and details about the affected area and advice on what to do.
Future alerts may also include a phone number or a link to the GOV.UK website for more information for the public.
Future alerts may be sent in the event of severe flooding, fires, terrorist incidents or public health emergencies.
These emergency alerts will only be sent by Emergency services and Government departments, agencies and public bodies that specifically deal with emergencies.
Further details are available at About Emergency Alerts - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and this webpage will be updated with key information.