National Highways has confirmed a new warning message will be displayed on motorways across the country from Sunday morning. Officials explained that messages will warn road users of the exact time the Government’s Emergency Alert System notification will sound.
National Highways has been reminding drivers of the date of the mobile phone alert all week with warnings displayed on top roads such as the M25 and M40. However, the message will become even more specific from Sunday morning, reminding drivers that the alert is expected at 3pm. According to National Highways, the messages will read “PHONE ALERT TEST – 3PM” and “MOBILE PHONE ALERT TEST 3PM”.
A National Highways spokesperson told Express.co.uk: “We are displaying messages on some of our motorway signs to tell motorists about the national emergency alert test on Sunday, September 7. We are also displaying other safety messages, as well as incident updates as usual.”
Almost every phone and tablet in the country will be hit with the audio alert on Sunday afternoon. The sudden noise could be a serious concern for road users with confused drivers likely to take their eyes off the road to cancel the phone alert.
However, Sarah Jenkins, an expert from MyCarRegCheck, stressed road users should simply ignore the alert instead.
Individuals who are caught touching their mobile phone to cancel the Emergency Alert could be found in breach of strict rules. Tougher mobile phone rules mean individuals can be hit with a £200 fine for simply touching their device while behind the wheel.
Sarah explained: “Emergency Alerts are there to save lives – but behind the wheel, the safest response is no response. If you hear the siren, keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Don’t risk a fine, points or, worse, an accident. Wait until you’re parked safely with the engine off before checking your device.”
National Highway has also urged road users to not pick up a phone or attempt to deal with the message if it goes off while the vehicle is moving. Instead, officials told road users to continue driving as normal while staying in full control of a vehicle at all times.
GOV.UK explained: “Compatible smartphones and tablets will display the alert message on screen, make the distinctive siren sound, and vibrate. The sound is designed to be attention-grabbing and will override your normal volume settings. This ensures the alert can reach you even if your phone is on silent or you’re in a noisy environment.”
