Millions of phones to be set off by 10-second ‘emergency alert'
Millions of phones to be set off by 10-second 'emergency alert' - this is why
90% of mobile phones are expected to be triggered during the test
Affected phones will vibrate, emit a siren-like beep for 10 seconds and read out the emergency alert
(Image: GETTY )
The government's emergency alert siren is due to be tested again this year, triggering a 10-second siren that will be emitted from millions of phones. The system was first launched in 2023 to alert the public to emergencies affecting their areas.
This should be the final test of 2025, according to the Independent. Mobile phone users affected by the test will receive an alert on their home screen.
Their devices will also vibrate, read out the alert and sound off a series or siren beeps for up to 10 seconds, even if it's in silent mode. Even once the sound ends, users won't be able to use any other functions on their phone until they've acknowledged the message.
Phones that are switched off or in flight mode won't be affected. You can also choose to opt out of the testing scheme.
About 90% of mobile phones in any test area are expected to be affected via 4G and 5G networks. For people who don't have compatible devices, they can still be alerted to emergencies through other avenues.
The date of the test hasn't been confirmed yet, but this is believed to be the final test of 2025. After which the system will be tested every two years.
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The last time the emergency siren was triggered for a real situation was back in January when a number of counties received a red warning for extreme wind associated with Storm Éowyn. The alert warned it could present a 'danger to life'.
The text read: 'A RED warning for wind has been issued. Extremely strong winds associated with Storm Éowyn are expected to cause significant disruption from 10am on Friday 24 January 2025. Strong winds can present a danger to life, causing flying debris, falling trees and large waves around coastal areas. Stay indoors if you can. It is unsafe to drive in these conditions. Avoid coastal areas.
'The storm may damage infrastructure causing power cuts and disruption to mobile phone coverage. Consider gathering torches, batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items you already have at home.
'Stay up to date with the weather forecast and follow advice from emergency services, network operators and local authorities. Search online for gov.uk/alerts and Met Office warnings and advice.'
Emergency alerts can only be sent by the emergency services, government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies. The message is usually sent in English but phone users in Wales might receive Welsh versions.
The alerts are based on your current location, not where you live or work, and you don't need to turn on location services to receive it. The government urges everyone to 'stop what you're doing and follow the instructions' if they receive an alert.
Article continues below
However, if you're driving when the alert comes through, the guidance says: 'Do not read or respond to an emergency alert while driving or riding.
'Find somewhere safe and legal to stop before reading the message. If there's nowhere safe and legal to stop, and nobody else is in the vehicle to read the alert, you can listen to news on live radio to find out about the emergency.'
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