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Emergency alert sounded bang on time for most but not everyone





The government's new national emergency alert sounded as scheduled on 3pm for most people but not everyone.

The trial was carried out on mobile phone networks across the UK.

The alarm went off as announced. Picture: ShutterStock
The alarm went off as announced. Picture: ShutterStock

The siren was loud and clear on phones across Badenoch and Strathspey, according to Strathy readers who had left their phones on – and some who had even turned them off.

Their had been an option to opt out.

But there have been issues which seems to have mostly affected those on the Three network.

The test failed to sound on some phones at 3pm and other alerts arrived late and even a fraction early.

Many people across the UK reported that they had not received an alert at 3pm, when a loud blast lasting for 10 seconds was sounded along with a text message.

Many individuals affected individuals were on the Three mobile network.

The company later said that it was 'working closely with the Government to understand why and ensure it doesn't happen when the system is in use'.

The Cabinet Office has said it would review the outcome of the test, acknowledging that the alert did not reach some phones.

The system is designed to warn the public if there is a danger to life nearby.

Once established, the system is intended to be used in life-threatening situations including flooding and wildfires.

The message flashing on the screen 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."


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