What is the Emergency Alerts test?
On Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm, the government will carry out a national test of the Emergency Alerts system.
This means most mobile phones and tablets across the UK will receive a test message, accompanied by a loud siren-like sound and vibration that will last for about 10 seconds.
The message you receive will clearly state that this is a test and that no action is required on your part. The alert will come through even if your device is set to silent mode, which is an important feature of the system designed to ensure people receive warnings in genuine emergencies.
Why is this test happening?
The Emergency Alerts system serves a crucial purpose in keeping the public safe. It's used to warn people when there's a danger to life nearby, including severe weather events like storms or flooding. Since the first national test in April 2023, the system has sent five real alerts during major storms when lives were genuinely at risk.
Regular testing ensures the system continues to work correctly and reaches as many people as possible when it's needed most. Just like testing smoke alarms or practising fire drills, these tests help ensure the system will work effectively during a real life-threatening emergency.
Extract and image from the Gov.UK Website with thanks
