The UK government will conduct a nationwide emergency alert system test on Sunday, September 7 at 3pm. Mobile phones and tablets across the country will emit a loud, siren-like sound as part of the trial.
Motorists are specifically warned not to touch their phones when the alert sounds. The government emphasises that drivers must not interact with their devices during the test for safety reasons.
Alert timing and technical details
The emergency alert will last for several seconds and cannot be dismissed early. All compatible smartphones and tablets connected to UK mobile networks will receive the test message simultaneously at 3pm.
Chronicle Live reports this marks only the second time the UK has tested its emergency alert system. The technology is designed to warn the public about life-threatening emergencies such as severe weather, flooding, or terror incidents.
Driver safety concerns
WalesOnline highlights particular concerns about driver safety during the test, emphasising the importance of not touching phones whilst behind the wheel. The regional focus underscores how the nationwide alert affects drivers across Wales and the broader UK.
Emergency preparedness officials stress that the system represents a crucial tool for public safety communications. The test aims to ensure the infrastructure works effectively before any real emergency requires its use.
Sources used: "Express", "WalesOnline", "Chronicle Live"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
