Millions to receive emergency alert in ‘largest public safety exercise in British history’
What to expect during mobile emergency alert test
- The UK is preparing for its "largest public safety exercise in British history" with a nationwide mobile phone emergency alert test.
- Millions of smartphones on 4G and 5G networks across the UK will emit a loud siren-like noise and vibrate at 3pm on 7 September.
- This trial is part of the UK's emergency alert system, designed to warn the public of life-threatening disasters such as major storms or wildfires.
- Cabinet Minister Pat McFadden stated the system could save lives; the service was previously used during major storms and an unexploded Second World War bomb incident in Plymouth.
- The alert message will clearly state it is a test and advise recipients that no action is required, while providing guidance for real emergencies.