The Government has announced they will test the Emergency Alerts system on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.
At this time an alert will be sent to all mobile devices and tablets across the UK, followed by a loud ringing sound (that will stop after 10 seconds) and a warning message. To continue use of your device simply swipe across or click ‘Ok’ to remove the message from your screen.
For those who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind or partially sighted, audio and vibration attention signals will inform you of the alert.
As this is a test, no further action is needed.
Below is an example of what the test alert will look like:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvZM-oCReu8
The Government has created two videos in British Sign Language (BSL) to help explain how the Emergency Alerts test will work:
National Emergency Alert BSL - English Version
National Emergency Alerts BSL - Welsh Version
You will not receive a test alert if your device is turned off, on airplane mode or connected to a 2G or 3G network. If you wish to opt out from receiving emergency alerts, click here. Although it is advised that you receive the alerts for your own safety.
This is a UK-wide test so we advise that you disseminate this information to your staff and clients to ensure older people and those who may be at risk are made aware. Particularly for those who may have secondary mobiles and tablets, as this could cause disruption and concern.
In the future, you may receive alerts about:
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Severe flooding.
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Fires.
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Extreme weather.
These alerts will only be sent by the Emergency Services, Government departments and public bodies that deal with emergencies.
Further information about the Emergency Alerts system can be found here.
