The UK government’s new Emergency Alerts system is live and will enable people to be contacted via their mobile phone when lives are in danger.
It will be used to warn you in the event of emergencies, such as severe flooding.
Emergency Alerts are sent to all compatible mobile phones within an area of risk. They don’t track your location, need your phone number, or collect personal data. Only the government and the emergency services will be able to send them. If you don’t have a mobile phone, you’ll still be kept informed through other channels.
If you get an Emergency Alert on your phone, you’ll hear a loud, siren-like sound. A message on your screen will tell you about the emergency and how best to respond.
You’ll can check to make sure an alert is genuine by visiting the Government's website.
To ensure the Emergency Alerts system works effectively, a nationwide test will take place on Sunday 23 April between 3.00pm and 3.30pm.
If you receive an alert, read the alert carefully and follow the instructions. You can also opt out of receiving emergency alerts, if you choose.
To find out more about Emergency Alerts, please visit the national GOV.UK website.