New Emergency Alerts service:
The UK Government is testing a new Emergency Alerts service, which expected to launch in summer 2021. Testing is about to take place, and you may get an alert if you live in, or travel through, a test area. Emergency alerts are broadcast from mobile phone masts. Every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range will receive an alert. The government does not need your phone number to send you an alert.
National Tests: Friday 18th & Tuesday 22 June 2021
Some mobile phone networks in the UK are testing emergency alerts between midday and 2pm on Friday 18th June. There will be a second test on Tuesday 22 June between 1pm and 2pm
If you have an Android device, there’s a small chance you may get a test alert. Your device may make a loud siren-like sound.
The alert will say:
“This is a mobile network operator test of the Emergency Alerts service. You do not need to take any action. To find out more, search for gov.uk/alert”
You can opt out of mobile phone network tests.
Reading (Berkshire) Tests: Tuesday 29 June 2021
The UK government will send a test alert between 1pm and 2pm.
If you get an alert, your phone or tablet may make a loud siren-like sound. You do not need to take any action.
The alert will say:
“The UK government is testing Emergency Alerts in Reading, Berkshire.
Emergency alerts tell you what to do if there’s a life-threatening event nearby.
To find out more, call 0808 1697692 or search for gov.uk/alerts”
Reasons you might get an emergency alert
You may get alerts about:
- severe flooding
- fires
- explosions
- terrorist incidents
- public health emergencies
Emergency alerts will only be sent by:
- the emergency services
- government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies
For most people, the chance of receiving an alert will be low.