Emergency alert test to sound on phones this Sunday

Residents across Stone will hear a loud siren-like sound on their mobile phones this Sunday afternoon, as the UK government carries out a national test of its emergency alert system.

At 3:00 pm on Sunday, 7th September, most modern smartphones in Stone and across the country will vibrate, sound an alarm, and display a test message for around 10 seconds, even if set to silent.

What the test means for Stone

The alert is not linked to any real emergency in our area. Instead, it’s designed to check that the system works properly so it can be relied upon during events such as severe flooding, extreme weather, or major incidents.

Pat McFadden, the work and pensions secretary, explained:

“I know Brits will keep their cool when phones across the UK make a siren-like noise.

It’s important to remember this is only a test, just like the fire drills we all do in our schools and workplaces.”

Stone has seen its fair share of heavy rainfall and river level concerns in recent years, so officials say the alerts could play a role in giving residents timely warnings in the future.

What you’ll see and hear

The message on screen will read:

“This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby. You do not need to take any action.”

Phones that are switched off or in airplane mode will not receive the alert.

Advice for residents with hidden phones

Domestic abuse charities have advised that anyone with a concealed phone should switch it off completely ahead of the test, as the alert could draw attention to its presence.

How to opt out

While the alerts are intended to provide life-saving information, it is possible to turn them off if necessary:

• iPhone: Go to Settings > Notifications and scroll to the bottom to switch off Severe Alerts and Extreme Alerts.
• Android: Search your settings for Emergency Alerts and turn off Severe Alerts and Extreme Alerts.
• Other phones: Check under settings for Emergency broadcasts or Wireless emergency alerts.

Looking ahead

This is only the second nationwide test of the system. Regional alerts have already been used, including to help evacuate more than 10,000 people in Plymouth when an unexploded World War Two bomb was discovered.

While most Stone residents will experience nothing more than a brief noise and vibration on Sunday, the government says these short tests are vital to making sure the system works when it matters most.