On Sunday, September 7, the Emergency Alerts system in the UK will undergo a test, sending out a loud notification to mobile phones and tablets nationwide. This test alert is expected to last for approximately 10 seconds and is designed for future use in emergency scenarios, such as severe weather events.
Despite the significance of these alerts, it is important to recognize that they could pose risks to certain vulnerable individuals, including survivors of abuse who may possess a concealed phone.
A recent announcement from the domestic violence charity, Women’s Aid, highlighted the option for survivors to opt out of these emergency alerts by adjusting their phone settings, ensuring their safety and privacy.
While the upcoming September 7 alert is a mere test run, it serves as a preparatory measure to alert UK residents about potential future dangers like wildfires, severe flooding, and extreme storms. Various authorities, including the Government, emergency services, and relevant agencies, have the ability to issue such warnings.
It is noteworthy that the Government does not require individuals’ phone numbers or locations to send these alerts. Each alert will feature a phone number or a link to the GOV.UK website for further information.
Alerts are location-based and do not rely on users’ provided information. Devices will emit loud sounds, vibrations, or voice messages when an alert is triggered, ensuring that users are promptly informed.
While action may not be required during the upcoming alert, future notifications may include instructions on necessary steps to take. It is important to refrain from reading or responding to emergency alerts while driving or riding, as safety is paramount.
Emergency alerts are meant to complement, not replace, traditional news sources like local news, radio, television, or social media announcements. The Government emphasizes that individuals with incompatible devices will still receive life-threatening alerts.
Most emergency alerts in the UK will be issued in English, with the possibility of receiving alerts in Welsh in Wales. For individuals with vision or hearing impairments, audio and vibration alerts will notify them of an emergency if accessibility features are enabled on their devices.
For further details on the UK’s emergency alerts, visit the official GOV.UK website.
