New Emergency Alerts
About Emergency Alerts
Emergency Alerts is a new service from the UK government.
Emergency alerts will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby.
In an emergency, your phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.
Reasons you might get an emergency alert
The government and mobile phone networks are testing emergency alerts.
If there’s a test in your local area, you might get an alert.
You may also get an alert if you travel through a test area during a test.
When the service is live
You may get alerts about:
- severe flooding
- fires
- explosions
- 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.
When you get an emergency alert
Your phone or tablet may:
- make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent
- vibrate
- read out the alert
The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds.
Stop what you’re doing and follow the instructions in the alert.
Sometimes an alert will include a phone number or a link to the GOV.UK website for more information.
If you’re driving or riding when you get an alert
Find somewhere safe to stop before using your phone or tablet.
It is illegal to use a hand-held device while driving or riding.
For more information go to https://www.gov.uk/alerts