The government will be testing the Emergency Alerts system this Sunday, and your phone is likely to make a loud noise even if it's on silent. Here's everything you need to know about what's happening and why.
What is the Emergency Alerts test?
On Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm, the government will carry out a national test of the Emergency Alerts system. This means most mobile phones and tablets across the UK will receive a test message, accompanied by a loud siren-like sound and vibration that will last for about 10 seconds.
The message you receive will clearly state that this is a test and that no action is required on your part. The alert will come through even if your device is set to silent mode, which is an important feature of the system designed to ensure people receive warnings in genuine emergencies.
Why is this test happening?
The Emergency Alerts system serves a crucial purpose in keeping the public safe. It's used to warn people when there's a danger to life nearby, including severe weather events like storms or flooding. Since the first national test in April 2023, the system has sent five real alerts during major storms when lives were genuinely at risk.
Regular testing ensures the system continues to work correctly and reaches as many people as possible when it's needed most. Just like testing smoke alarms or practising fire drills, these tests help ensure the system will work effectively during a real life-threatening emergency.
Will this affect schools and workplaces?
Since the test is scheduled for 3pm on a Sunday, most schools will be closed. However, it's worth noting that if any educational activities or events are taking place, phones will still receive the alert. The timing has been carefully chosen to minimise disruption to most people's daily routines, though some weekend activities may experience brief interruptions.
The alert itself lasts only about 10 seconds, so any disruption should be minimal. The government has designed the timing to balance the need for comprehensive testing with reducing inconvenience to the public.
What will happen on your device?
Compatible smartphones and tablets will display the alert message on screen, make the distinctive siren sound, and vibrate. The sound is designed to be attention-grabbing and will override your normal volume settings. This ensures the alert can reach you even if your phone is on silent or you're in a noisy environment.
Not all devices will receive the alert. Older phones or those not connected to 4G or 5G networks may not be compatible with the system. You can find more detailed information about device compatibility at gov.uk/alerts.
How can you prepare for emergencies?
Beyond the alert system itself, there are practical steps everyone can take to be more prepared for emergencies. The government provides comprehensive guidance at gov.uk/prepare, covering everything from creating emergency supply kits to making family communication plans.
The Emergency Alerts system represents an important tool for keeping communities safe, and this test helps ensure it will be ready when we need it most. While the brief interruption on Sunday afternoon might be inconvenient, it's a small price to pay for a system that could one day help save lives.