The Government has launched a UK-wide Emergency Alerts system which will be first tested this Sunday

On Sunday 23 April, phones across the nation will sound an alert for 10 seconds, even if they are on silent.

This is a part of a new emergency system to be put in place by the Government to warn citizens of urgent threats.

If there is an emergency in your area, a siren-like sound will play on your phone for about 10 seconds. This will be accompanied by a pop-up message onscreen outlining the details alongside key telephone numbers and links for more information.

Emergency Alerts are sent to all compatible mobile phones within an area of risk. They don’t track your location, need your phone number, or collect personal data. Only the government and the emergency services will be able to send them. If you don’t have a mobile phone, you’ll still be kept informed through other channels.

If you get an Emergency Alert on your phone, you’ll hear a loud, siren-like sound. A message on your screen will tell you about the emergency and how best to respond. You’ll be able to check an alert is genuine on the gov.uk website.

To ensure the Emergency Alerts system works effectively, a nationwide test will be conducted on Sunday 23 April between 3-3:30pm.

The alarm will sound like this:

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Rutland and Melton MP, Alicia Kearns, said: "This new system will transform our emergency warning and informing capability, allowing emergency responders and Government agencies to quickly send Emergency Alerts to nearly 90% of mobile phones in a defined area when there is a risk to life."

If you receive an alert, read the alert carefully and follow the instructions.

You can opt out of receiving emergency alerts. Get more information on how to opt out online.