Emergency Alerts is a new service from the UK government that is expected to launch in summer 2021.
Emergency alerts will warn you if there is a danger to life nearby. In an emergency, your phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.
Alerts may be received about:
-
severe flooding
-
fires
-
explosions
-
terrorist incidents
-
public health emergencies
Emergency alerts work like a radio broadcast. In an emergency, mobile phone masts in the surrounding area will broadcast an alert. Every compatible mobile phone or tablet in range of a mast will receive the alert. They will override silent settings on your phone and there will be an audible alarm. If you are driving, there is no need to pull over or act immediately.
The system is being piloted in East Suffolk today (25 May) and Reading on 15 June. Members with operations in these areas may wish to ask staff to remind their customers that this test is taking place.
