Essentials
Emergency Alerts in the UK: what to do
An Emergency Alert is a government warning about a life-threatening emergency near your current location. It may arrive during severe flooding, a wildfire or extreme weather. Read the message and follow its instructions. Prepare beforehand so you know how your device works and how you would get information if your phone cannot receive an alert.
Published: Updated:
Last checked: 7 November 2026 How we evaluate sources
What an alert looks and sounds like
Your phone or tablet may sound a loud siren, vibrate and read the message aloud, including when set to silent. The sound and vibration last about ten seconds. Alerts relate to where you are at the time, rather than your home address.
The message explains the danger and the action to take. Keep it available while you act. You can also check current and past alerts on GOV.UK. In Wales, messages may be sent in Welsh as well as English.
No registration or app is needed
Emergency Alerts are free broadcasts from mobile phone masts to compatible devices on UK 4G or 5G networks. You do not need mobile data, wifi or location services switched on. The system does not need your phone number.
A switched-off, incompatible or wifi-only device will not receive them. Neither will a device connected only to 2G or 3G. A device in airplane mode may not receive an alert. Keep software updated and use GOV.UK's compatibility guidance for your device.
Check how alerts work and device compatibility (opens in a new tab)
Respond without creating another emergency
The service does not send emails or ask for personal details. If a message seems suspicious, open GOV.UK/alerts directly to check it. Never let checking a message delay getting away from immediate danger.
- Read the full instruction, including the area affected and any timing.
- Follow the stated action, which may include staying indoors or leaving an area.
- If driving, have a passenger read it or stop safely. If neither is possible, listen to live radio news.
- Check on household members who may not have received or understood it, when safe to do so.
Government advice on responding to alerts (opens in a new tab)
Keep receiving alerts separate from requesting help
EmergencySMS is a different service. It lets deaf, hard-of-hearing and speech-impaired people contact 999 by text, and requires registration beforehand. Receiving a government Emergency Alert does not register you for emergencySMS.
Flood warnings and some other local updates also have their own sign-up arrangements. Set these up separately if they are relevant to you.
Your alerts checklist
GOV.UK recommends keeping alerts enabled. A concealed phone can create a safety concern for someone experiencing domestic abuse; use the GOV.UK opt-out instructions if this applies.
- Check device compatibility and keep its software updated.
- Read the GOV.UK guidance for alert and accessibility settings on your device.
- Bookmark GOV.UK/alerts and arrange a second information source, such as local radio.
- Agree how your household will help someone who cannot receive or understand a phone alert.
GOV.UK alert settings and opt-out guidance (opens in a new tab)
Common questions
Do I need to give the government my mobile number?
No. Emergency Alerts are broadcast to compatible devices in an area. They do not require registration, a contact list or an app.
Where can I find a message I dismissed?
Visit GOV.UK/alerts for current and past alerts. Some devices also retain alerts; follow your manufacturer's guidance to find them.
Make your next step practical
Keep preparing
Evidence and service information
Sources behind this guidance
We develop our guidance using the sources below. Check the named organisation for current service details, live warnings and local instructions. Sources checked 7 November 2026.
- About Emergency AlertsGOV.UK
- How emergency alerts workGOV.UK
- Alerts and warningsUK Government Be Ready
- Opting out of emergency alertsGOV.UK
- EmergencySMS serviceEast Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust