When Is the UK Emergency Alert Test? Date, How to Prepare, and Why the Aftermath Has People Concerned

The UK government is preparing for the second nationwide test of its Emergency Alerts system, scheduled for 7 September 2025 at 3:00 PM BST.

Mobile phones on 4G and 5G networks will emit a loud siren-like sound and vibrate for up to 10 seconds, displaying a test message to ensure the system's reliability.

While the government urges preparation, concerns linger from the first test in 2023, which exposed technical issues and raised fears among vulnerable groups, prompting questions about the system's effectiveness and impact.

Test Date and What to Expect

On the pre- determined date, millions of compatible mobile devices across the UK will receive a test alert, part of the government's commitment to regular testing, as seen in countries like Japan and the USA.

The message, revealed on 28 July 2025, 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.'

The alert, accompanied by a siren-like sound, will appear on screens even if phones are on silent, though devices that are off or in aeroplane mode will not receive it.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, described it as 'one of the biggest public safety exercises in our nation's history,' urging the public to 'mark the date' and consider their response in a real emergency.

Since its 2023 debut, the system has been used five times, including for Storm Éowyn in January 2025, reaching 4.5 million people in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

How to Prepare for the Test

The government has launched a public information campaign to prepare citizens, with targeted communications for vulnerable groups, including victims of domestic abuse, and a national video in British Sign Language.

Drivers are advised not to read the alert while driving, with guidance to 'find somewhere safe and legal to stop' first, as it's illegal to use a handheld device while driving.

Those wishing to opt out, particularly domestic abuse victims with hidden phones, can disable alerts via settings, searching for 'emergency alerts' and turning off 'test alerts' or 'operator alerts.'

The government's website, gov.uk/prepare, offers advice on emergency preparedness, such as stocking water and torches.

Concerns Surrounding the Aftermath

Earlier tests exposed technical issues, with 7% of compatible devices, particularly on the Three network, failing to receive the alert, while others received multiple or early messages.

This has raised doubts about the system's reliability in a real crisis, such as severe flooding or terror attacks.

On X, public sentiment reflects mixed views. A post from @infosec_fox on 8 August 2025 stated, 'UK Government is about to do one of its biggest tests so far on its Emergency Alert test system.'

Another from @kerfufflequeen on 5 August 2023 noted, 'Sends domestic abuse victims scrambling to silence their hidden emergency mobile phones, so they don't get their faces smashed in.'

These concerns echo warnings from charities about risks to vulnerable individuals.

While the system proved effective during incidents like the Plymouth bomb evacuation in 2024, described by Tracey Lee, Plymouth City Council chief executive, as an 'invaluable tool,' doubts persist about its readiness for nationwide emergencies.

The Emergency Alerts system aims to bolster national resilience, but its success hinges on addressing technical flaws and protecting vulnerable groups.