Siren to blare out of every phone in UK for emergency alert
It is designed to inform the public about imminent dangers
Another public alert test is set to be carried out
(Image: PA )
A 10-second siren is set to blare out of mobile phones across the UK as the Government carries out another test of its emergency alert system. The loud alarm was first tested in 2023, and is considered part of a "crucial public safety trial" aimed at preparing people living in the country for life-threatening situations.
This includes severe weather or national security threats. It is designed to inform the public about imminent dangers in their vicinity.
The emergency alert system will once again send a message that reads: "Severe Alert. This is a test of emergency alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby.
"In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.
"Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action."
The last time people in Wales received an alert was for Storm Darragh after the Met Office issued a rare red warning. Read more about that here
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What is an emergency alert?
The emergency alert system is used by the Government in areas when there is a potential threat to life such as a red weather warning. It contains information about the threat and provides guidance on how to stay safe.
The system was tested across the UK in April 2023 and this was the largest use of the system outside a test scenario. Every compatible phone receiving the alert made a siren-like sound, much louder than a normal text message, even if they were on silent.
When is it happening?
As global tensions rise and concerns over international instability grow, including the potential for conflict in the Middle East following disturbances in Iran, this year's test underscores the Government's call for heightened readiness among the British public.
The last time the alert sounded, people discussed how loud it was, and how it scared them when it sounded. Some described it as 'Dalek like'.
The exact date of the alert is yet to be announced, but once the next nationwide trial is completed, officials say the system will be activated every two years to keep people ready for emergencies.
Elsewhere, the European Union issued advice to nearly 450 million people to stockpile emergency supplies in case of war, cyber-attacks, natural disasters or pandemics.
The guidance included recommendations to store bottled water, high-energy snacks, torches and waterproof ID pouches, all intended to help families survive up to 72 hours without assistance.
In addition, the EU is planning a crisis handbook to help residents prepare for "various crises, from potential conflict to climate disasters, pandemics and cyber threats," according to The Metro.
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In the UK in 2023, some devices failed to receive the notification, prompting questions about the system's reliability.
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