MOBILE PHONES across the country will receive ‘emergency alerts’ today as part of the government’s nationwide test.

Officials have warned that mobile devices could make a ‘loud siren-like sound’ and vibrate for 10 seconds as part of the government’s new safety feature test.

Here’s everything you need to know about the emergency tests - including when they will take place and why:

What is the Emergency Alerts service?

Emergency Alerts is a new service from the UK government.

It’s expected to launch in summer 2021 and the alerts will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby.

In the event of an emergency, your phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.

How does it work?

The alerts are broadcast from certain mobile phone masts and devices in range will receive an alert.

This means that you will get alerts based on your current location – not where you live or work.

Government officials don’t need your phone number in order to carry out alerts.

The alert is also free and no one will collect or share data about you, your device or your location when you receive an alert.

What will happen in the planned test?

The test will only impact android devices and there is only a “small chance” that you will get a test alert.

Your device will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound, event if it’s on silent.

The alert message will read: “This is a mobile network operator test of the Emergency Alerts service.

“You do not need to take any action. To find out more, search for gov.uk/alerts.”

Lancashire Telegraph: An example of the emergency message (Photo:Gov.uk)An example of the emergency message (Photo:Gov.uk)

In the event of a real emergency you will need to stop and follow the instructions in the alert and follow any links or numbers in the message.

However, for the test today you don't need to take any further action.

What are the reasons for getting an alert when the scheme launches?

When the scheme launches in summer you will get an emergency alert for the following reasons (aside from testing purposes):

  • severe flooding
  • fires
  • explosions
  • terrorist incidents
  • public health emergencies

Emergency alerts will only be sent by:

  • the emergency services
  • government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies

For most people, the chance of receiving an alert will be low.

When is the emergency test?

The alert will be tested between 1pm and 2pm today (22 June).

A similar test will be taking place at the same time in Reading in Berkshire on 29 June - so don’t be alarmed if you get an alert while passing through the area.

Can I opt out of the tests?

If you don’t want to be part of mobile phone network test you can opt out.

This is how:

Search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Test alerts.

If you can’t see Test alerts:

  1. Open your phone calling app.
  2. Use the keypad to enter *#*#2627#*#*
  3. Search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Test alerts.