Emergency alert system – safety advice
On 23 April 2023, the UK Government are testing a new emergency alert system that will warn you if there is danger to life nearby. Your mobile phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe. This might be an alert due to severe flooding, fires or extreme weather.
Your mobile phone or tablet may:
- make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent
- vibrate
- read out the alert
The Government Website has more information about the emergency alert system and the test on 23 April 2023.
Secret or silent phones are often a lifeline for survivors of abuse and it is important that they are aware of the system and test and how they can opt out of the service.
Opting out of the service
Opt Out iPhone:
- To opt out, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Severe alerts and Emergency alerts.
- If this does not work, contact your device manufacturer.
- For further advice go to gov.uk/alerts/opt-out
Opt Out Android phones and tablets:
- To opt out, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and turn off Severe alerts and Emergency alerts.
- On Huawei devices running EMUI 11 or older, search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’ and please turn off “Extreme threats”, “Severe threats” and “Show amber alerts”
- If this does not work, contact your device manufacturer.
The domestic abuse charity Refuge have put together a short video explaining how to opt out of the service.
Further contacts
If you are worried the emergency alert system will put you at risk, please seek advice or support. Services will be there to help you.