The AA is warning drivers to be prepared for the planned emergency alert today (Sunday) as it could cause a distraction for some drivers who are unaware of the test. All mobile phones will sound 10-second alert at 3pm. The alert will sound like a siren and make phones vibrate. The alert will have to be cleared before the phone can be used again.
Lorna Lee, AA Campaigns Manager, said: “The testing of a national alert system is very welcome. This kind of warning system could be very useful in certain situations, such as extreme weather or extensive flooding. The test does bring certain risks though, which need to be managed. For drivers in particular, awareness of the test is vital to avoid any panic when it sounds.
“If you are driving when the alert sounds, you must not touch your phone to stop the alert as the normal driving laws still apply. Instead, wait for a safe place to pull over (not the hard shoulder nor Emergency Area), acknowledge the alert, and continue your journey.
“Some drivers may prefer to switch their phone off in advance if they know they will be driving during the alert test.”
AA advice for drivers for mobile phone alert test
- Know what is coming - it will be a unique tone and vibration lasting around 10 seconds, it will then stop
- Normal laws apply - you cannot touch the phone when behind the wheel to discard the alert
- Some cars will be able to stop the alert using the in-car systems. If not, you will need to find somewhere safe to pull over, switch off the engine and cancel the alert before being able to use Bluetooth/infotainment system
- Some may find it better to turn the phone off for an hour between 2.30 and 3.30 so they don't become distracted at all
