National test of the UK’s Emergency Alerts system

The UK Government is testing its Emergency Alerts system on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.

The test will be sent to all compatible 4G and 5G mobile phones and tablets across the UK.

Anyone with a compatible phone will hear a loud siren-like sound, vibration, and a message will appear on the screen confirming this is a test. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds.

Depending on the phone’s features, the alert will work with screen magnification and may read the message aloud having overridden volume settings. The unique noise emitted by the phone should also be audible for those who use a hearing aid.

The public can opt out of Emergency Alerts, including the national test, but it is advisable to keep them switched on for residents’ safety. Step-by-step instructions about to turn off the alerts is available at gov.uk/alerts/opting-out.

Publicising the test

The Government will publicise the test in advance of Sunday 7 September.

You may also wish to share information about the test through your own communication channels and networks.

There is an official promotional toolkit available at Emergency-Alerts-Test-2025-Partner-Toolkit.pdf.

Sevenoaks District Council will be sharing details of the test on its social media accounts from Tuesday 26 August 2025. You’re welcome to share our posts on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X.

About the Emergency Alerts

The Emergency Alerts system is an important tool for reaching the public in emergency situations. Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it need to be used in a life-threatening emergency. Find out more at gov.uk/alerts.

Only the Government and the emergency services can send them. You’ll be able to check that an alert is genuine at gov.uk/alerts.

Emergency Alerts will be just one of the ways the Government communicates with the public about emergency situations.

Best wishes

Daniel Whitmarsh

Communication and Consultation Manager

Call 01732 227414

Sevenoaks District Council | Council Offices | Argyle Road | Sevenoaks | Kent | TN13 1HG

e-mail [email protected]

www.sevenoaks.gov.uk