Emergency Alert Test on 7 September – Important Safety Information
On Sunday 7 September at 3pm, the UK Government will be testing its Emergency Alert system. This means that mobile phones and tablets across the UK will receive a loud alert and vibrate for 10 seconds, even if they are set to silent.
📱 What Is the Emergency Alert System?
The Emergency Alerts system is designed to warn people about life-threatening events like severe flooding or fires. But while it may help save lives in some cases, it also comes with unexpected risks, particularly for people who keep a concealed phone for their own safety.
🛑 Why This Matters
For some individuals experiencing domestic abuse or coercive control, a hidden or secret phone is a vital lifeline – a private way to call for help, stay in contact with support networks, or access information safely. The upcoming alert could reveal the presence of these hidden devices, putting people in immediate danger.
🔕 How to Turn Off Emergency Alerts
To protect yourself or someone you support:
- Visit: gov.uk/alerts/opting-out for instructions to disable emergency alerts on most Android and Apple devices.
- Make sure the device is turned off before 3pm on 7 September, just to be safe.
🚫 According to gov.uk, you will not receive the alert if your phone is:
- Turned off
- Connected only to a 2G or 3G network
- Wi-Fi only (with no SIM)
- Not compatible with the alert system
📢 Help Spread the Word
Please share this information widely, especially with:
- People who may be at risk of domestic abuse
- Support organisations and professionals
- Friends, family, and community groups