On Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm, mobile phones and tablets across the UK will sound an alarm as part of a national Emergency Alerts test. If you have a compatible device, you’ll hear a loud siren-like noise and feel your phone vibrate for about 10 seconds. The message will appear on your screen explaining that this is only a test, so you don’t need to do anything. Even if your phone is on silent, the sound will play. That’s intentional the system is designed to make sure people don’t miss life-saving warnings in real emergencies.
Why Is the Alert Being Tested?
The government introduced the Emergency Alerts system in 2023 to warn the public when there’s an immediate risk to life, such as flooding or severe weather. Since then, it has been used several times during major storms to help protect communities. Testing the system regularly is vital. Just like checking a smoke alarm, it ensures the alerts will work properly when they’re needed most. According to official guidance on gov.uk/alerts, the tests are designed to check reliability while keeping disruption to a minimum.
Will It Affect Schools or Events?
Because the test is scheduled for a Sunday afternoon, most schools and offices won’t be affected. However, people attending Sunday events such as church services, sports matches, or family gatherings may hear the alarm. The alert lasts only a few seconds, so any disruption will be short. The government chose this timing carefully to reduce inconvenience while still reaching as many people as possible.
How Will the Alert Look and Sound?
If your phone is compatible, the alert will take over your screen with a message, while the device makes a distinctive noise and vibrates strongly. The sound is designed to be impossible to ignore, even if you’re in a noisy place or your phone is muted. Not all devices will receive the test. Some older phones, or those not connected to 4G or 5G, may not be able to pick it up. For a full list of supported devices, you can visit the official government page at gov.uk/alerts.
How Can You Prepare for Real Emergencies?
The test is a reminder for households to think about how prepared they are for unexpected situations. The government has a dedicated site, gov.uk/prepare, which offers advice on creating emergency plans, putting together supply kits, and making sure families know how to stay in touch during a crisis. Taking these steps can make a big difference if a real emergency ever happens. The alert system is one tool, but personal preparation is just as important.
A Short Test for Public Safety
The 7 September test may be loud and surprising, but it’s designed to protect lives. By checking the system now, the government is making sure it can warn people quickly and effectively when it really matters. It’s a small interruption on a Sunday afternoon, but one that could help save lives in the future.