Emergency alert test - Sunday 7 September at 3pm
Important advice for those affected by domestic abuse and others with concealed phones.
The UK Government will test its emergency alerts system across the country on Sunday, 7 September at 3pm. This system is designed to warn people if there is a danger to life nearby, such as severe flooding, fires or extreme weather with advice on how to stay safe.
During the test, your mobile phone or tablet may:
- Make a loud siren-like sound for about 10 seconds, even if it’s on silent
- Vibrate or read out the alert
- Display a message on screen confirming that it is only a test
Find more information and FAQs about the emergency alerts system
Advice for those affected by domestic abuse
If you're affected by domestic abuse and have a hidden phone, the emergency alert could make it ring or light up, which might reveal it. You can turn off emergency alerts on that phone by following the instructions on how to opt out.
Support is available
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone. Help is available:
- In an emergency if you do not feel safe or believe there is an immediate threat, call 999.
- Women can call the national domestic abuse helpline run by Refuge.
- Men can contact Respect men’s advice line
- LGBT+ individuals can call Galop for emotional support and guidance
- For forced marriage or honour-based abuse contact: