Everything You Need to Know About the UK Emergency Alerts Test on 7 September 2025
What’s Happening on 7 September?
On Sunday, 7 September 2025 at exactly 3 PM BST, the UK government will conduct the second-ever nationwide test of its Emergency Alerts system. Most mobile phones and compatible tablets connected to 4G or 5G networks will emit a loud, siren‑like tone and vibrate for around 10 seconds—even if set to silent mode—followed by a message clearly stating that it is only a drill and that no action is needed.
The test is aimed at ensuring the alert system works effectively and that the public becomes familiar with what to expect in a real-life emergency.
On Sunday, 7 September 2025 at exactly 3 PM BST, the UK government will conduct the second-ever nationwide test of its Emergency Alerts system. We've put together a quick rundown of what will happen, when, and why... Share on XWhy This Matters
The Emergency Alerts system plays a vital role in public safety. It allows authorities to deliver immediate, location-specific warnings in life-threatening situations—such as extreme flooding, wildfires, severe storms, or other critical incidents.
Since its launch in 2023, the system has already been used for real emergencies, including:
- Storm Darragh in Wales and South‑West England
- A WWII unexploded bomb incident in Plymouth
- Storm Éowyn in Northern Ireland and central Scotland
Who Will (and Won’t) Receive the Alert
- Will receive: Any device on 4G or 5G that’s compatible, turned on, and within UK territory. The alert targets devices by their current location, not by registered address.
- May not receive: Phones on 2G or 3G, older devices, devices that are switched off or in airplane mode, or those whose users have opted out.
If you don’t receive the alert, you can still rely on traditional warning channels like radio and TV.
Important Advice for Specific Situations
- Drivers: Interacting with your phone while driving is illegal and could result in a fine or penalty points. Wait until safely parked before checking your phone.
- Domestic abuse survivors or people with hidden devices: The sudden loud alert could pose a risk of discovery. If safety is a concern, consider turning the device off or putting it into airplane mode during the test.
- Live events: Some sporting or entertainment events may be briefly paused to accommodate the alert without distracting attendees or participants.
How to Opt Out (If Necessary)
You can disable test alerts via your phone settings, though authorities encourage keeping alerts enabled for safety.
On iPhone: Go to Settings → Notifications, and turn off ‘Severe Alerts’ and ‘Extreme Alerts.’
On Android: Search your settings for ‘Emergency Alerts’, then disable ‘Severe Alerts’ and ‘Extreme Alerts.’
Final Thoughts
This test is the UK’s largest public safety drill of its kind and is key to ensuring that in a genuine crisis, critical warnings can reach people promptly—potentially saving lives. Please keep calm when the alert arrives, remember it’s only a test, and take a moment to familiarise yourself with the process for future preparedness.
