The UK government’s new Emergency Alerts system is now live.
What is it? The system will enable people to be contacted via their mobile phone when lives are in danger. It will be used to send a direct message only where there is a risk to life, either locally or nationally. This could include public health emergencies, severe floods, fires and industrial incidents.
How does it work? 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 still be kept informed through other channels.
How will I know if I get an emergency Alert? 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. You’ll be able to check an alert is genuine at gov.uk/alerts If you receive an alert, read the alert carefully and follow the instructions.
What about 23 April 2023? Following successful tests in East Suffolk on 25 May and Reading on 29th June 2021, the Emergency Alerts system is now live and the Government has chosen 23rd April to nationally test its new Emergency Alerts System. To find out more about Emergency Alerts, visit gov.uk/alerts