Every mobile phone in the UK will sound a loud emergency alert simultaneously next weekend. The Government is testing its Emergency Alerts service, with all devices across the country set to receive the alarm at the same time.
The alert will produce a loud siren-like sound lasting ten seconds, accompanied by vibration. Only 4G and 5G-enabled phones and tablets will receive the emergency notification during this nationwide test.
First test since 2023
This marks the first emergency alert test since 2023, as the Government continues to develop its emergency preparedness infrastructure. The system is designed to warn the public about life-threatening emergencies in their local area.
Officials are framing the exercise as a routine "public safety exercise" with reassuring messaging to prevent public alarm. The test aims to ensure the emergency alert system functions properly across the UK's mobile networks.
Technical requirements
The alert will only reach devices that support 4G and 5G technology, meaning older phones may not receive the notification. The ten-second duration includes both audio and vibration alerts to ensure maximum visibility.
The Emergency Alerts service represents a key component of the UK's emergency response capabilities. Further testing may follow as the Government refines the system for potential real-world emergencies.
Sources used: "Coventry Telegraph", "Birmingham Mail", "Daily Mail"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
