How to disable UK emergency phone alerts on Android and iPhone

U.K. residents will be caught off guard this weekend as the nation rolls out a trial for its emergency alerts system. 

The Guardian reports that this test, which will be conducted on April 23 at 3pm, could cause individuals’ cell phones that are 4G and 5G compatible to “make a siren-like sound.” This alert will still occur even after the phone is “placed on silent.” The publication states the reason behind the emergency alert system is to help inform the public about “life-threatening emergencies.” 

The multiple ways that the sound from the emergency alert system could be silenced. The list includes an individual either turning off their phone, permanently disabling the notifications, placing one’s phone on airplane mode, removing the phone’s sim card, or taking out its battery.

The instructions to disable the notifications will vary on the type of phone the person owns. 

How to Disable Emergency Alerts on an iPhone 

Those who own an iPhone must go to their settings app and scroll down to the notifications option. Once they have entered the notifications tab, the individual would have to look for the emergency alerts section, often located at the bottom of one’s screen, and select the option. 

While launching the emergency alert tab, the individual would be allowed to turn off the alerts and their sound. Many should beware that because everyone’s iPhone is different due to its make and year, the instructions, although they are very similar, will vary.

How to Disable Android’s Emergency Alerts 

As for Android users, disabling the emergency alert is relatively simple. The instructions will vary depending on the phone’s brand, make, and year. The fairly common way to access the emergency alert options is by going to the settings app and searching for the safety and emergency tab. 

Upon entering the safety and emergency section, individuals must look for and click the wireless emergency alerts option, allowing them to switch it off.