Test message and alarm scheduled for this afternoon
This afternoon, Sunday 07 September, will see mobile phone users receive a test message of the national emergency system on their screen while their devices will emit a siren-like sound for up to 10 seconds. It’s due to happen at around 3 p.m.
The drill will be just the second of its kind. The government says it’s following a commitment to test the system regularly so the public becomes familiar with how it works. Other countries also practice regular alerts, including Japan and America.
‘From major storms to wildfires, this system could save your life in an emergency,’ explains Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
‘Just like the fire alarm in your house, it’s important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it. It’s part of our Plan for Change to secure the nation and keep people safe.’
‘This test will be one of the biggest public safety exercises in our nation’s history. Mark the date, spread the word, and take a moment to think about how you would respond in a real emergency.’
The AA is issuing guidance for motorists ahead of the test. It’s reminding drivers that it’s illegal to use a hand-held device while driving.
The motoring organisation says people should familiarise themselves with the alert sound and vibration – and not to interact with the message until stopped in a safe place with the engine switched off.
The system helped evacuate 10,000 residents
‘We support the testing of the Emergency Alerts system, which is an important tool the government uses to keep people safe in a crisis,’ says Edmund King, AA President.
‘On the day, drivers should simply stay calm and focus on the road. As always, only check your phone when you’re parked safely with the engine turned off.’
Since the first national test of the Emergency Alerts system in April 2023, five alerts have been sent, including during major weather events when lives were at risk.
During Storm Éowyn in January 2025, 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland received an alert warning of life-threatening conditions.
And in Plymouth, the system helped evacuate 10,000 residents in just hours after an unexploded WWII bomb was discovered.
The upcoming test follows the publication of the Resilience Action Plan where the government sets out a raft of measures to try to secure the nation.
It includes the investment of more than £4 billion in flood defences to more than £1 billion in a network of National Biosecurity Centres. The plan’s aim is to try to better protect communities from threats, such as extreme weather.
Breaktime News has previously reported on storm damage caused by Storm Babet.
