Emergency Alerts service

Emergency alerts may be sent during emergencies such as severe flooding, major fires, extreme weather or other incidents that require immediate action.

The service is managed by the UK Government and can be used by emergency services, government departments and other authorised organisations.

How emergency alerts work

Emergency alerts are sent using mobile phone networks.

Alerts are sent to compatible mobile phones and tablets in a specific geographical area.

You do not need to sign up for the service and there is no charge to receive alerts.

Your privacy

The system does not need your phone number.

It does not collect personal information or track your location.

No personal data is shared when an alert is sent.

Network requirements

Emergency alerts work on compatible devices connected to UK 4G and 5G mobile networks.

You do not need to be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data to receive an alert.

What happens when you receive an alert

If an emergency alert is sent to your area, your device may:

• play a loud siren-like sound, even if it is set to silent
• vibrate for around 10 seconds
• read the alert aloud if accessibility settings are enabled
• display information about the emergency and any actions you should take

Read the alert carefully and follow the instructions provided.

If you are driving

Do not read or respond to an alert while driving.

If you hear an alert while driving, continue until you can stop safely and legally before reading the message.

Hidden phones and personal safety

Some people keep a hidden mobile phone for personal safety reasons.

Because emergency alerts make a loud sound, this may present a risk in some situations.

You can choose to turn off emergency alerts in your device settings.

Search for "emergency alerts" in your phone settings and follow the instructions for your device.

Find out more

Read more about Emergency Alerts on GOV.UK

Watch: How emergency alerts work