Ahead of the testing of the Government’s new emergency alerts system this weekend, drivers are being urged not to respond by picking up their mobile phones.
The emergency system has been launched to provide advice about how to stay safe on rare occasions where there is a threat to life.
Alerts will initially focus on the most serious weather-related events, such as:
- severe flooding
- fires
- extreme weather
The system is being tested on Saturday (23 April).
A message will appear on the home screens of mobile phones and tablets from 3pm, accompanied by a loud siren-like sound or vibration lasting for about 10 seconds.
The test alert will say: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.
“In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.
“Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information.
“This is a test. You do not need to take any action.”
With respect to driving, the Government says: “If you’re driving, do not pick up your phone.
“Keep driving safely, and if you need to check your phone, pull over when it’s safe to do so.”
Comment on this story