what an Emergency Alert means
An Emergency Alert means there is a danger to life nearby. Read it and follow what it says.
Your phone makes a loud, siren-like sound and vibrates, even on silent. You do not need to sign up.
Alerts go to every phone in an area and do not track you. Keep them switched on, or you would miss real warnings.
when one arrives
Stop and read it
It tells you what is happening and what to do. It may link to gov.uk for more.
If you are driving, do not read it
Find somewhere safe and legal to stop first, or ask a passenger.
Do what it says
That might be to stay indoors, to leave an area, or to avoid a road.
Tell people nearby who may not have it
Older relatives, neighbours, or anyone without a smartphone.
Check local radio for updates
A battery or wind-up radio keeps working if mobile networks are busy.
what to have ready
Check what you already have first, then buy only what is missing.
Wind-up or battery radio
For updates when the mobile network is busy or down.
Choose one on Amazon: Wind-up or battery radio (opens in a new tab)Power bank
Keeps your phone on if the power goes.
Choose one on Amazon: Power bank (opens in a new tab)
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where this comes from
- Emergency Alerts, UK Government
- How Emergency Alerts work, UK Government
Sources checked 24 September 2026.