Keeping domestic abuse victims safe – how to switch off Government Emergency Alert

The UK Government is testing the national emergency alerts system this weekend on Sunday 7 September 2025 at 3pm.

It’s a test to confirm that the system is working, to keep people safe in future major emergencies.

For people in an abusive relationship, the alert could unintentionally put domestic abuse victims at risk if they have a concealed phone for their own safety.

The Government explains you can opt out of this weekend’s alert if you need to.

How you can opt out depends on your device – opt out of operator test alerts.

iPhone

To opt out:

• Go to your settings and select the ‘notifications’ menu
• Scroll to the bottom
• Turn off ‘severe alerts’ and ‘extreme alerts’

Android phones

To opt out:

• Search your settings for ‘emergency alerts’
• Turn off ‘severe alerts’ and ‘extreme alerts’

For people not opting out of Sunday’s alert, your mobile phone or tablet will vibrate and make a loud siren-like sound, even if it’s set on silent. The alert message will confirm this is a test and that you do not need to take any further action.

Find out more here: gov.uk/alerts.

If you’re a Bernicia tenant and are experiencing abuse, or if you are worried about someone else, you can contact our Safeguarding Team directly at safeguardingteam@bernicia.com for confidential support.

For help and support for anyone suffering domestic abuse, please contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or visit https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/ for Live Chat to speak with a professional support worker.