Summary
A test of the UK's emergency alert system for mobile phones is scheduled for Sunday, 7 September, at 15:00 BST. The test will send a siren sound and message to compatible smartphones connected to 4G and 5G networks. People can opt out if they wish.
Key Facts
- The emergency alert test occurs on 7 September at 15:00 BST.
- It will send a siren sound and message to compatible smartphones on 4G and 5G.
- About 87 million mobile phones in the UK could receive the alert.
- The alert will not reach phones that are off, in airplane mode, or without 4G/5G.
- Users can opt out by changing settings on their phones.
- The government's test in April 2023 had technical issues, affecting some users.
- The alert system has been used in the past for real emergencies, like during storms.
- Domestic abuse charities caution users with secret phones to turn them off during the test.
