Tel: 0330 043 5423
On Sunday 23 April 2023 at 3pm the government will be sending a UK-wide Emergency Alerts test message to all compatible devices (4G and 5G devices). The message will make clear that no action is required, that the message is simply a test and will provide a link where you can find further information on the Emergency Alerts service. When you receive the message, your phone or tablet may vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound for about ten seconds, even if it is set on ‘silent’. The message will say, “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action.”
Emergency Alerts is a new government service that will warn you if there is a danger to life nearby (e.g. flooding, fire). In an emergency, mobile phone masts will broadcast an alert in the affected area. The alert will automatically be received by compatible mobile phones and tablets in the area and will give advice about how to stay safe.
You can opt out of receiving Emergency Alerts by adjusting your device settings, though the government advice is to keep them switched on for your own safety. If you are a survivor of domestic abuse with a secret or secondary phone or tablet, please be aware the Emergency Alert will play a sound even if your device is on silent. You can switch of the test and future alerts in your phone settings. Just open the settings app, search for “Emergency Alerts” and open the Emergency Alerts settings page. The charity, Refuge have created this short video to show you how. Click here to watch the video.
Emergency Alerts work on all 4G and 5G mobile networks in the UK. Emergency Alerts can only be sent by the emergency services and by government departments that deal with emergencies. They do not need your phone number to send you an alert – if your device is compatible, it will automatically receive the message. Data about you, your device or location will not be collected or shared.
You will not receive Emergency Alerts if your device is switched off, on aeroplane mode or connected to a 2G or 3G network. More information on Emergency Alerts can be found at gov.uk/alerts.
Simply Social Work. Registered Address: 80-83 Long Lane, London, EC1A 9ET. Company No. 13618309. VAT No. 401375631. All Rights Reserved ©2023 Simply Social Work.