The British government has launched a new emergency alert service for its citizens. The government has announced that siren-like alerts will be sent to mobile phone users across the UK next month. The service will be part of testing a new public alert system on life-threatening events such as severe weather events.
According to the news agency PTI, there will be an alert test in the UK on the evening of Sunday, April 23, in which people will be asked about their smartphones,
According to the announcement, the new emergency alerts will be used sparingly, only being sent where there is an immediate risk to people’s lives, so people may not receive an alert for months or even years.
It is likely that terror alerts could also be added to the list of possible events that would trigger the notification over time. Although it has not been added to the list yet.
Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden said: “To deal with a wide range of hazards – from floods to wildfires, we are strengthening our national resilience with a new emergency alert system.”
“This will revolutionize our ability to warn and inform those who are in immediate danger, and help us keep people safe. As we have seen in the US and elsewhere, the sound of a phone call can save a life. can save.”
Working with mobile broadcasting technology, the Emergency Alert System is set to transform the UK’s warning and information capability, providing a means of receiving urgent messages to around 90 per cent of mobile phones in a defined area, the Cabinet Office said. and provides clear instructions. How about best answer.
The UK-wide rollout follows successful trials in East Suffolk and Reading as part of an action plan against “ever-evolving” threats.
“Alerts will only ever come from the government or emergency services, and they will issue an alert, always include details of the area affected, and provide instructions on how best to respond – linking to gov.uk/alerts where people can get more information,” the UK Cabinet Office said.
Similar services have already been used in other countries, including the US, Canada, the Netherlands and Japan. The service has been widely credited with saving lives, for example, during severe weather events.
Mark Hardingham, chairman of the UK’s National Fire, said: “As with every fire and rescue service in the country, I’m looking forward to having emergency alerts available to help us do our jobs and help communities in case of emergency. Could.” Major Council.
“We have seen this type of system working elsewhere around the world and we look forward to having the facility here in the UK – working closely with fire services and partners we want this system to help you stay safe. Help us in You can if a crisis comes,” he said.
Carolyn Douglas, Executive Director of Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management at Environment, said: “Being able to communicate warnings during events in a timely and accurate way really encourages people to take action to protect themselves, their families and their neighbours. important to help do.” agency.
“Emergency Alerts is a great addition to our toolbox that we can use in emergency situations,” she said.
Emergency Alerts will be used in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and their initial use will focus on the most severe severe weather events, including severe flooding in England.
(With inputs from PTI)
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