Mobile users to get a warning message as UK emergency system launches
Mobile phone users will be sent an emergency alert in April to test a new system that will be used to warn people of life-threatening events such as extreme weather conditions.
The government says the new system will be key to saving lives and keeping people safe as it follows other countries like the Netherlands, Japan, and the US in implementing a nationwide alert service.
The warning message, which will be accompanied by vibrations and a short, loud siren, will be sent in the early evening on Sunday, 23 April.
It follows successful trials in select regions and ahead of the launch of a fully operational system for events like flash floods and wildfires, the latter of which occurred in the summer of last year.
Officials believe it could eventually be deployed for terrorist incidents, though that will require further development and fine-tuning.
National Fire Chiefs’ Mark Hardingham believes the arrival of a warning service is long overdue and will be key to helping both emergency services and local communities during emergencies.
Around 90% of mobile phones are expected to receive the alerts, which will be sent depending on the user’s location.
The government notes: “The system uses the cell tower your phone is connected to. When an alert is triggered, all towers in the area will broadcast the alert.”
While users can opt out of the service, the government hopes its potential to save lives will ensure it’s widely used.
Users will have to interact with the alert on their smartphones before they can use other features, such as apps and calls again.