by We live in a time where we rely on our mobile devices for almost everything – communication, work, travel, reading the news and, last but not least, our security.
The Emergency Alert System (EAS), established in 2023, provides critical information and guidance to the public if a life-threatening crisis occurs nearby.
A test of the alert system is planned for later this year – here’s everything you need to know about who gets the alert and what you should do if you get it.
What is the emergency alert system?
The alarm appears on a mobile device in the form of a notification, a vibration and a 10-second siren to capture the device owner’s full attention.
When was the emergency alert system used?
The so-called “Armageddon Alarm” has been issued four times since 2023:
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February 2024: We are urging residents of Plymouth to evacuate their homes if an unexploded Second World War bomb is discovered.
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February 2024: Issued to another group of residents in Plymouth for evacuation due to the discovery of the bomb.
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April 2024: Used to warn residents of Cumbria about flooding.
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December 2024: Alerts more than three million people living in areas severely affected by Storm Darragh, mainly in Wales and the south west of England.
When will I receive the notification?
The date when device owners will receive the warning has not yet been announced, although it will be sometime later this year.
What does the test notification say, who sends it and who receives it?
In the last test in 2023, the warning read: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there is a life-threatening emergency nearby.”
“In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to protect yourself and others. This is a test. You don’t have to do anything.”
The relevant government agencies and emergency services are the only organizations that can send the alerts.
The message will be sent to around 87 million 4G and 5G devices.
What should I do when I receive the notification?
Because the upcoming alert is a test, you don’t need to take any action. Those who receive the message simply need to swipe or click on the message to confirm it, and then they can use their device as usual.
If someone is driving while receiving the warning, the government urges them to find a safe place to stop their vehicle before reading and acknowledging the message.
Can I turn off notifications?
Yes. If you want your phone’s presence to remain hidden, you can turn off alerts in your device’s settings. If your device is turned off during the test, you will not receive a notification.
