UK to Test Emergency Alert System with Nationwide Mobile Siren
On Sunday, September 7, something unusual will happen at around 3pm — millions of phones across the UK will suddenly buzz, flash, and make a loud siren-like sound for about ten seconds. Don’t panic though — this is not a real emergency. It’s actually part of the UK government's second national test of the Emergency Alerts system, and it’s designed to make sure everything works just as it should if there ever is a real crisis.
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So here’s what’s going to happen. If you have a mobile phone connected to a 4G or 5G network in the UK, you’ll receive a message straight from the government. The message will pop up on your screen, your device will vibrate, and a loud alert sound will be played. The message is short — only 86 words — and it clearly states that this is just a test . No action is needed. But the idea is to mimic what would happen if there were ever a real threat to life nearby, like a major weather event or another type of emergency.
The exact message reads: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby. You do not need to take any action. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Find simple and effective advice on how to prepare for emergencies at gov.uk/prepare. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information or to view this message in Welsh. Ewch i gov.uk/alerts am ragor o wybodaeth neu i weld y neges hon yn y Gymraeg.”
This second test was announced by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, who compared it to a fire alarm — something that we hope we never need to use, but it’s vital to know it works. According to him, these alerts could save lives in real emergencies, and regular testing helps both the system and the public stay ready.
Since the first national alert test back in April 2023, the system has already been used five times — including during serious weather events like Storm Éowyn in early 2025, when about 4.5 million people were alerted in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Ahead of the test, the government has also launched a public information campaign to spread the word — including targeted messages for vulnerable groups and even the first national video in British Sign Language. Officials are encouraging people to see this as part of the UK’s broader push to build national resilience and prepare for crises more like countries such as Norway or Sweden already do.
So if your phone blares loudly at 3pm on September 7 — don’t worry. It’s just a test. But one that could make a huge difference when it really counts.
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