Emergency alert text warning from National Highways days ahead of UK-wide test

Motorists have been urged not to touch their mobile phones whilst driving during this weekend's trial of the UK Emergency Alerts system, National Highways has cautioned.

Millions of mobile devices across Britain will emit a piercing alarm at 3pm on Sunday, regardless of whether they are set to silent mode.

A text notification will flash up on phone screens, clarifying what is happening in the second major trial of the system the government employs to warn Britons about life-threatening emergencies, such as serious flooding.

The exercise is a drill, similar to the one conducted in 2023, to make sure the Emergency Alert System (EAS), which utilises 4G and 5G phones and tablets, is functioning properly before genuine incidents of flooding, wildfires, extreme weather and other disasters.

Nevertheless, all Brits are advised to read and react appropriately, exactly as they would during an actual emergency.

However, National Highways has now reminded motorists they will need to check the notification later if they are behind the wheel at that moment.

The organisation stated: "Do not read or respond to an emergency alert while driving or riding."

National Highways' website adds: "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."

Motorists have been warned that they could face a hefty fine and penalty points if they use their phone to follow the UK Emergency Alerts system protocol while driving. The National Highways has emphasised that police will not show leniency for this excuse.

Drivers can be hit with six penalty points and a £200 fine if they are caught using a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device capable of sending and receiving data whilst driving or riding a motorcycle.

The first national test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) is set to take place in April 2023, following successful trials in the US and Japan. At the time, ministers described the message as "the sound that could save your life".

This sentiment remains unchanged. The government website states: "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 required action, it clarifies, is to stop what you're doing and follow the instructions in the alert - unless you are driving.

However, the government has stressed that the system will not replace local news, radio, television or social media. Those without a compatible device can rely on mainstream media, such as newspapers and news websites, to stay informed about serious emergencies, including flooding, at any time.