Urgent emergency text warning issued by National Highways ahead of test event

Brits should not pick up their mobile phones if their driving during this weekend's test of the UK Emergency Alerts system, the National Highways has warned.

Millions of mobile phones across the UK will blare a loud siren at 3pm on Sunday - even if they are on silent. A text message will appear on the screen, explaining what is going on in the second major test of the system the government uses to alert Brits to life-threatening emergencies, such as severe flooding.

The event is a test - just like the one in 2023 - to ensure the Emergency Alert System (EAS), which exploits 4G and 5G phones and tablets, is working ahead of real incidents of flooding, wildfires, extreme storms and other catastrophes. Despite this, all Brits are advised to read and respond accordingly, just like they would in a real situation.

But the National Highways has now reminded drivers they will have to read the message later if they are at the wheel at the time. It said: "Do not read or respond to an emergency alert while driving or riding."

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The National Highways website continues: "Find somewhere safe and legal to stop before reading the message. If there’s nowhere safe and legal to stop, and nobody else is in the vehicle to read the alert, you can listen to news on live radio to find out about the emergency. It’s illegal to use a hand-held device while driving or riding."

Police will not show leniency at the excuse motorists are following the UK Emergency Alerts system protocol, the National Highways has stressed. Drivers can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if they hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device which can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle.

The first national test of the EAS in April 2023 followed successful schemes in the US and Japan. Then, ministers billed the message as "the sound that could save your life".

And this opinion hasn't wavered. The government website reads: "Regular testing ensures the system is functioning correctly, should it be needed in an emergency. The test is not intended to alert you to real danger and you will not need to take any further action." The only action, it states, will be to stop what you’re doing and follow the instructions in the alert - unless you are driving.

But the government stress the system will not replace local news, radio, television or social media. Those without a compatible device can use mainstream media, such as newspapers and news websites, to remain aware of real concerns about life-threatening emergencies, including flooding, at any time.