The government has released more details about a UK-wide test of the emergency alert system next week.
Millions of phones will display a message next to the loud alarm April 23 at 3pm.
The text that will appear has now been released – and it will say: “This is a test of the Emergency Alert, a new UK government service that will warn you if there is a life-threatening emergency nearby.
“In a true emergency, please follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information.
“It’s a test and you don’t need to take any action.”
Messages will be received on 4G and 5G phones with sound and vibration for up to 10 seconds, even when the device is on silent.
Phone users will be prompted to tap OK on the home screen or swipe away from the message before continuing to use their device.
Drivers are advised not to look at their phones until they are safe.
this emergency alert system Intended for use in life-threatening situations, including floods and wildfires.
UK emergency alert system explained
It was modeled on similar programs in the US, Canada, Japan and the Netherlands.
Oliver Dowden, Minister for the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “Having this system up and running means we have an important tool to keep the public safe during life-threatening emergencies.
“That could be the sound that saves your life.”
But domestic violence campaigners say the test could put people at risk by revealing the location of secret calls hidden by those at risk.
The government said it had been working with organizations working with vulnerable women and girls to ensure they were not adversely affected.
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If people need to hide their phones, they can opt out of the system by turning off emergency alerts in their settings or simply turning off the device during the test, officials said.
Test day will feature several major events, including the London Marathon and the Premier League kick-off between Bournemouth and West Ham and Newcastle and Tottenham at 2pm.
The government said it had worked with the football association and marathon organizers to limit the impact of the text.
Chief Fire Officer Alex Woodman, from the National Fire Chiefs’ Council, said: “We must use every tool at our disposal to keep people safe and we need everyone to play their part and the new emergency alert system is our One way this can be done.
“10 seconds, the national test may be an inconvenience to some, but it matters because the next time you hear it, your life and the life-saving actions of our emergency services may depend on it.”