The UK government’s new Emergency Alerts system is now live. The system will enable people to be contacted via their mobile phone when lives are in danger.

The new emergency alert system will be used to warn residents in the event of emergencies.

Reasons you might get an alert

You may get alerts about:

• Severe flooding
• Fires
• Extreme weather

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.

What happens when you get an emergency alert

• Make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent
• Vibrate
• Read out the alert

A message on your screen will tell you about the emergency and how best to respond. You’ll be able to check if an alert is genuine at gov.uk/alerts

If you receive an alert, read the alert carefully and follow the instructions. 

On Sunday 23 April 2023 at 3pm, there will be a national test of the UK Emergency Alerts service.

You can opt out of receiving emergency alerts on the Government website. 

Find out more about Emergency Alerts.