A message from Refuge about the UK Emergency Alert System

On April 23rd, the government will send out an alert to all devices in the UK to test their emergency alert system. It’s designed to keep people safe from things like extreme weather, but the alert might endanger women who are sharing a home with an abuser.

Many women affected by domestic abuse keep a secret second phone as part of their safety plan. But on the 23rd, the emergency alert system will send out a loud, siren-like noise to all phones and tablets. This means that abusers could easily discover a woman’s secret phone.

If you are affected by domestic abuse this video shows you how to disable the emergency alerts on your second phone.