How to Turn Off Emergency Alerts on iPhone

Millions of people across the UK will hear a loud alarm on their phones this Sunday, September 7, at 3pm. The government will run a nationwide test of its Emergency Alert system. The system is designed to warn people during life-threatening events such as floods or severe storms.

Most phones will receive the alert. It will appear on the screen and sound for around ten seconds. While the government advises keeping alerts on for safety, some people may wish to turn them off. This includes victims of domestic abuse who may have hidden devices that must stay silent.

Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off Emergency Alerts on iPhone

iPhone users can disable alerts in just a few steps. Open Settings on your iPhone and go to Notifications. Scroll all the way down. At the bottom, you will see options for Extreme Alerts and Severe Alerts. Turn both switches off.

Once done, your device will no longer make the loud noise during future emergency alerts. According to the BBC, the government stresses that these alerts carry life-saving information. Still, the choice remains with each user.

The test will happen on all phones connected to 4G or 5G networks. Older phones without this connection may not receive the alert at all.

Turning Off Emergency Alerts on Android and Other Devices

Android users also have the option to disable alerts. Go to Settings and search for Emergency Alerts or Wireless Emergency Alerts. The exact name can vary by device. Once inside, turn off Extreme Alerts, Severe Alerts, and any option for Test Alerts.

Some phones may place these settings under Sounds or General Settings. In rare cases, you may need to go through the Messages app settings instead.

The government confirms that if alerts continue after these changes, users should contact their phone manufacturer for help.

The UK Emergency Alert system is still new. It was first tested in April 2023 and has since been used five times during real emergencies. Similar systems are already active in countries such as the US and the Netherlands.

Choosing to turn off alerts is a personal decision. But officials continue to stress that alerts are there to protect lives.

If you want silence, follow the steps above. If you want safety, keep alerts switched on.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How to turn off emergency alerts on iPhone?

Go to Settings, then Notifications. Scroll down to the bottom. Turn off Severe Alerts and Extreme Alerts.

Q2: Can I turn off emergency alerts on Android?

Yes. Go to Settings and search for Emergency Alerts. Turn off Severe, Extreme, and Test alerts.

Q3: Will older phones get the UK alert?

No. Phones not connected to 4G or 5G may not be compatible with the system.

Q4: Why does the UK send emergency alerts?

The alerts warn people about danger to life, such as severe weather, floods, or national emergencies.

Q5: When will the UK alert test happen?

The next test is set for Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 3pm across the UK.