THE UK Government is testing the national emergency alert system that aims to warn the public if there is a danger to life nearby on Sunday.
At around 3pm, mobile phones connected to 4G and 5G networks will vibrate and emit a siren sound for up to 10 seconds.
It will mark the second test of the system – after the first in 2023.
Mobile phone users will also receive a message making clear that the alert is a drill.
The UK Government has used the system to issue real warnings five times, including in January during Storm Eowyn to warn people in Scotland and Northern Ireland about severe weather.
Messages can be targeted to relatively small areas to pinpoint those at risk, and the system is designed for use during the most likely emergencies to affect the UK and warnings would also be transmitted on television, radio and locally by knocking on doors.
Government officials have also met with domestic violence charities and campaigners for discussions on helping those who may need to opt out of the test.
What time is the emergency alert on Sunday?
Millions of mobile phones and tablets across the UK will emit a loud siren-like alarm and vibrate for about 10 seconds at 3pm on Sunday in a nationwide test of the public alert system.
The message will be received on all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets.
The alarm will sound even if the device is set on silent.
Do I need to do anything?
Phone users will be prompted to acknowledge the alert by swiping or clicking the message before being able to continue using their device.
Who sends the alerts?
Emergency alerts will only be sent by the emergency services or Government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies.
What if the alert comes through when I am driving?
The Government is urging people to not read or respond to an emergency alert while driving or riding.
You are advised to find somewhere safe and legal to stop before reading the message, and if there is nowhere safe and legal to stop, and nobody else is in the vehicle to read the alert, you can listen to news on live radio to find out about the emergency.
The AA said motorists should only check their phone when stopped as laws banning the use of handheld phones will still apply.
