UK to Test National Emergency Alert System on All Smartphones in September

The United Kingdom is gearing up to conduct another nationwide test of its emergency alert system, designed to warn citizens about imminent threats to life. The test is scheduled for September 7th at 15:00 BST and will see compatible smartphones across the country vibrate and emit a siren-like sound for 10 seconds, displaying a critical alert message, regardless of their sound settings.

This forthcoming test follows a previous nationwide trial in April 2023, which, while a significant step, encountered technical challenges. Some users reported receiving alerts earlier than scheduled, while others did not receive them at all. Reports indicated that approximately 7% of compatible devices did not receive the message, with specific issues noted among users on certain mobile networks. The Cabinet Office acknowledged these issues and committed to reviewing and addressing them to ensure a more robust performance in future tests.

The emergency alert system is intended for critical situations such as severe weather events, terrorist attacks, or any scenario posing an imminent danger to life. It aims to provide timely and direct information to the public, enabling swift action and promoting safety. While the system has been deployed regionally on five occasions in recent years, including during Storm Eowyn and Storm Darragh, and to facilitate the safe removal of a World War Two bomb in Plymouth, the upcoming September test marks a crucial step in refining its nationwide efficacy.

It is important to note that the alert will only be received by smartphones operating on 4G or 5G networks. Older devices and those connected to 2G or 3G networks will not be compatible with the system. While devices not connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi can still receive the alert, those that are switched off or in airplane mode will not receive the notification.

Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden emphasized the importance of regular testing, stating, “Just like the fire alarm in your house, it’s important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it.” This sentiment underscores the proactive approach being taken to ensure the system’s reliability in genuine emergencies.

Concerns have been raised by domestic abuse charities regarding the potential risks to victims if hidden phones are alerted. In response, the government has published guidance for domestic abuse victims on how to opt out of the alerts, while still encouraging the general public to keep the system switched on. The upcoming test will also include a version of the alert in British Sign Language to ensure accessibility for deaf individuals.

The September test is a vital measure to ensure the system’s effectiveness and to familiarize the public with its operation, aligning the UK with international practices in countries like the United States and Japan that also utilize similar alert mechanisms.