Domestic abuse victims are being urged to switch off any hidden phone ahead of the emergency alert system test on Sunday. Campaigners warned of a “very real risk” the 3pm nationwide test will reveal emergency mobiles hidden in homes and put vulnerable women in danger.
But the alarm will not sound if the phone is switched off or put on airplane mode.
Domestic abuse charity Refuge welcomed the Government’s “proactive communications”.
But the test could come as a shock to people not expecting it when it is sent to millions.
The system is designed for use in the event of nuclear accidents, bombings, killer storms, floods or dangerous criminals on the loose.
It will copy similar schemes in America, Canada, the Netherlands and Japan. Officials are drawing up plans on how it can be expanded to cover terrorist attacks.
And it could later be widened to include messages about escaped dangerous prisoners or cases of child abduction.
Sunday’s nationwide trial will send a message to those with 4G and 5G-capable phones.
It will be accompanied by sound and vibration for up to 10 seconds. The message will read: “This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a
new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.
“In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe. Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action.”
