Emergency Alerts

Emergency Alerts is a new service from the UK government and is expected to launch in summer 2021.

They 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.

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.

The government and mobile phone networks are testing emergency alerts. You may get an alert if you live in, or travel through, a test area.

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.

If you want to see an alert again

You can find current and past alerts at gov.uk/alerts.

You can also search for them on your phone or tablet.

If you get reminders about an alert

Android phones and tablets may get more than one reminder about the same emergency alert. To turn these reminders off, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’.

Reasons you might get an alert

The government and mobile phone networks are testing emergency alerts.

You may get an alert if you live in, or travel through, a test area.

How it works

Emergency alerts are broadcast from mobile phone masts. Every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range will receive an alert.

The government does not need your phone number to send you an alert.

For more information on emergency alerts visit gov.uk/alerts