The UK Government is set to test its emergency alert system, sending a test alert to millions of mobile phones across the nation. The test aims to ensure the system's readiness for future emergencies, such as extreme weather events or other life-threatening situations.
The UK Government is preparing to conduct a nationwide test of its emergency alert system, sending an 'Armageddon alert' to millions of mobile phones. Launched in 2023, the system has been previously employed during severe weather events such as Storm Darragh, instructing over 3 million people to remain indoors due to 90mph winds. This upcoming test aims to ensure the system's readiness for future emergencies.
Every 4G and 5G phone within coverage will simultaneously emit a loud siren-like sound and vibrate for up to 10 seconds as part of the warning process. While the exact date for the nationwide test remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to be widely publicized, reaching an estimated 87 million devices. Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden emphasized the significance of regular testing to the Mirror, stating, 'Most countries that have this system test it quite regularly and so we don't want it just to be once years ago and then everybody forgets it exists. This should be part of our armoury in warning people about major risks.' Similar systems are operational in countries like the USA, Canada, the Netherlands, and Japan, alerting the public about threats including extreme weather conditions. In Britain, these alerts serve as warnings for incidents like wildfires or significant floods, as reported by the Mirror. During the test, the public will not be required to take any action; they can simply dismiss the message by swiping away or pressing 'OK' on their mobile phone's home screen. The test alert is expected to read: 'This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there's a life-threatening emergency nearby. In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action.' Individuals who prefer not to receive these alerts can disable them in their phone settings. However, the Government strongly encourages people to keep them activated for their safety. The alerts are broadcast via mobile phone masts to every compatible device in the area, meaning individual phone numbers are not used by the Government to send these messages. Further testing of the system aims to resolve any technical issues. Initially, domestic violence organizations expressed concerns that the alerts might unintentionally reveal the location of hidden mobile phones belonging to victims, prompting officials to provide guidance on how to switch off the feature for those who believe it could compromise their safety
EMERGENCY ALERTS UK GOVERNMENT MOBILE PHONES PUBLIC SAFETY TEST WARNING SYSTEM
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