Emergency Alerts is a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a danger to life nearby.
The Launch of life-saving public emergency alerts system was announced by the Cabinet Office and The Rt Hon Oliver Dowden CBE MP who is the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office.
In an emergency, if you have one, your mobile phone or tablet will receive an alert with advice about how to stay safe.
It is unclear what law or powers give the government the authority to send emergency alerts. However it is an excellent idea as it will warn you about an immediate threat to life and could ultimately save lives.
The UK system is being modelled on similar emergency alert systems which are used in the US, Canada, Japan and The Netherlands.
When is the first National Test ?
The Cabinet Office have announced that on Sunday 23 April 2023 at 3pm, there will be a national test of the UK Emergency Alerts service.
Is there an FAQ ?
Yes. This was published by the Cabinet Office Frequently asked questions about Emergency Alerts
Can you opt out ?
You can opt out of the emergency alerts system in your phone’s settings, just search for “emergency alerts”, and turn off ‘severe alerts’ and ‘extreme alerts’.
You will not receive alerts if your device is turned off or in airplane mode.
However, these alerts are potentially life-saving so it is highly recommended that you keep them switched on.
What do the alerts look and sound like ?
Who are the Cabinet Office ?
The Cabinet Office support the Prime Minister to ensure the effective running of government. They are also the corporate headquarters for government, in partnership with HM Treasury they take the lead in certain critical policy areas.
The Cabinet Office is a ministerial department, supported by 26 agencies and public bodies.
His Majesty’s Government: The Cabinet lists details of MPs and Members of the House of Lords that hold a government post, their position and department.
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