MyEDC

    Technical Notes 2023, Issue 59 - National Testing of the UK's new Emergency Alerts System

    • Report by:

      Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer

    • TN Number:

      059-23

    • Subject:

      National Testing of the UK's new Emergency Alerts System

    • Responsible Officer:

      Lesley McKenzie, Democratic Services Team Leader Lesley McKenzie, Democratic Services Team Leader

    • Publication:

      This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.

    Section

    1. The purpose of this Technical Note is to advise Members of the National Testing of the UK's new Emergency Alerts system on Sunday, 23rd April 2023 at 3.00 pm.
    2. Emergency Alerts is a UK government service that will issue a warning if there is a danger to life nearby, with advice about how to stay safe. Alerts may be about severe flooding, fires and extreme weather.  These alerts will only be sent by the emergency services and government departments, agencies and public bodies that deal with emergencies.
    3. The test alert will be sent to most mobile phones across the UK.  Devices will make a distinct, siren-like sound for up to 10 seconds, including phones which are switched to silent mode.  Phones will also vibrate and display a message about the test. If you receive a test alert, you will not need to do anything on this occasion. If you receive one in the future, read the alert carefully and follow the instructions.
    4. If you want to check that an alert is genuine or you would like find out more about Emergency Alerts, where you can also access a video which demonstrates the alert sound and messaging format
    5.  If you have any questions about the national testing then please contact Karen Donnelly, Martin Cunningham or Lesley McKenzie for more information.