Introduction 

uk emergency alert system will undergo its second nationwide test on Sunday, 7 September 2025, at 3 pm BST. The test will reach millions of mobile phones across the UK, sounding a siren and showing a message even if the device is on silent. In this post, I explore what to expect, why this test matters, and how to prepare. I’ve included two highly searched related keywords—“mobile alert test” and “public safety exercise”—written in bold. Additionally, I used other relevant keywords like “4G and 5G networks,” “emergency preparedness,” and “system reliability” to boost SEO.

What to Expect During the Test

The government will send an emergency alert to all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets at around 15:00 BST on 7 September 2025 . The alert will trigger a loud siren-like sound and device vibration for about ten seconds—even if your phone is on silent . A test message will appear on screen, stating that it is purely a test and requiring no action .

This will mark the second national test following the first in April 2023 . Since then, the system has delivered real alerts, such as weather warnings during Storm Éowyn and Storm Darragh, as well as notifications for local threats like an unexploded WWII bomb in Plymouth .

Why This Test Matters

Testing the uk emergency alert system serves multiple critical purposes:

Validate System Functionality: Regular testing proves that alerts can reach the public quickly during a crisis .

Familiarise the Public: Experiencing the alert helps people recognize and respond more effectively in a real emergency .

Highlight Limitations: Older or incompatible devices may not receive the alert, exposing gaps that need addressing .

Drive Emergency Preparedness Awareness: The alert points users to government safety resources on gov.uk/prepare .

Support Public Safety Exercises: Officials call this one of the UK’s largest public safety exercises, echoing fire-alarm drills in homes 

Who Will (and Won’t) Receive the Alert

The alert will go out to devices connected to 4G or 5G networks across the UK. Devices that are powered off, in airplane mode, connected only to Wi-Fi, or reliant on 2G/3G will not receive the test . Many older smartphones lack support—specifically, iPhones need iOS 14.5+, and Android phones need Android 11+ to receive alerts .

According to government figures, more than 87 million mobile phones in the UK should be enabled to receive the alert .

How to Prepare

1. Check Device Compatibility

Ensure your phone runs at least iOS 14.5 (Apple) or Android 11 (Android) to receive alerts .

2. Enable Alerts in Settings

Confirm that Emergency Alerts are enabled via your phone’s notifications settings.

3. Know What the Alert Looks Like

Expect a siren sound and vibration lasting about ten seconds, followed by a clear test message 

4. Prepare in Advance system 

If you will be driving during the test, pull over safely before responding to the alert. If you can’t stop, tune into live radio to stay informed 

5. Spread the Word

Help others prepare by sharing the test date and what to expect. The government’s public information campaign includes accessible materials like British Sign Language designs and resources for vulnerable people .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the uk emergency alert system testing in 2025?

The UK is conducting a second nationwide test of its emergency alert system on 7 September 2025 at 3 pm, sending a loud siren and vibration to mobile devices as a drill to ensure readiness for crises .

 

Q2: Will all phones receive this alert system?

No. Only devices using 4G or 5G networks 8and running iOS 14.5+ or Android 11+ will receive the alert. Devices that are off, in airplane mode, connected only to Wi-Fi, or on 2G/3G will not get it .

 

Q3: What should I do when I get the alert system?

Stop what you’re doing and read the message. If you’re driving, find a safe, legal place to stop before interacting with your phone. If you can’t stop, listen to live radio for updates instead .

 

Q4: Why does the government run these tests?

Officials run tests to verify system reliability, raise public awareness, identify gaps, and reinforce emergency preparedness nationwide .

Call to Action

Do you want to help protect your community? Share this post and remind people about the uk emergency alert system test on 7 September 2025 at 3 pm. Encourage friends and family to check their devices—so when lives are at stake, information gets through. Let’s ensure everyone stays aware and prepared.

For more emergency readiness tips and how to test your notification settings, contact our team:

Email: safety@preparedness.uk

Phone: +44-20-1234-5678

 

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