Thread by @mtthwhgn

A consolidated thread of my recent #EmergencyAlerts 🚨tweets feels necessary. Note: this is just my take on things. Not official. Also not being drawn on rationale/conspiracy. 🧵

Q: What is #EmergencyAlerts?
A: A way to send notifications (not text messages) to compatible phones and tablets if a threshold is met.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1635579521574518784?s=20

Q: Where are #EmergencyAlerts issued to?
A: Emergency alerts are sent to ward-level areas based on mobile phone mast density. You don't need to turn on location services, download an app or register.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1636426351719612416?s=20

Q: What types of situations will need an #EmergencyAlert?
A: At the moment this is just for when there is a Severe Flood Warning. Other incident types may be considered in the future.

Q: What reasons might I not get an #EmergencyAlert?
A: If you are not within the designated area for the message, the reasons below, or if you have switched off emergency alert messages in your phone settings.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637002145777221634?s=20

Q: Is there a test of #EmergencyAlerts?
A: Yes. Mark the 23 April in your diaries (and get ready for a cacophony of siren noises) for the test at some point that evening.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637342535164080128?s=20

Q: Is there a preview of what #EmergencyAlerts might sound like?
A: There absolutely is, make sure your sound if on low so you don't alarm anybody nearby!

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637346281864454144?s=20

Q: What if I don't want to receive #EmergencyAlerts A: Simples...just turn them off on your phone settings. There's a whole range of reasons you might want to do this, including...

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637376358094364672?s=20

Q: Why are #EmergencyAlerts a thing now?
A: I can't comment on specific timings, but many incident inquiries and reviews have found communication to the public could have been improved. This has been in the works for some time.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1636327687030550528?s=20

Q: Does #EmergencyAlerts lock me out of my phone?
A: I don't know. from what I have seen today, it looks like you need to press a button to silence the alert, like when your alarm goes off. You can judge if that is locking out or not.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637345487236759553?s=20

Q: Are #EmergencyAlerts used anywhere else?
A: Yes, but can be called something slightly different (Wireless Emergency Alerts, Emergency Alert System). Here's an example message from the USA...

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637386430421893126?s=20

Q: I've already registered for flood alerts, does #EmergencyAlerts replace that?
A: Nope. If the criteria are met you could get both.

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1637412058718257154?s=20

Q: Where can I find out more about #EmergencyAlerts?
A: Best option is the video in the below tweet, or visit gov.uk/alerts

https://twitter.com/mtthwhgn/status/1634205183293939716?s=20

Q: What was that thing about #EmergencyAlerts in Hawaii?
A: They sent a poorly worded test and people were rightly concerned.

https://twitter.com/hines_stephen/status/1635626278685384704?s=20

Q: How long are you going to continue this incessant tweeting about #EmergencyAlerts
A: Okay I get the message...I'll give it a rest...for now! If you have questions then lmk, can't promise I have answers though! 🚨