Motorists are being warned that they could face hefty penalties in the coming weeks when the Government tests a national emergency alert.
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, at around 3pm, millions of mobile phones across the country will receive an emergency alert as part of a national test.
Mobile phones across the UK will be sent the alert as part of the Government's plans to increase preparedness in the event of an emergency.
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The test will see phones vibrate and make a loud siren sound for around 10 seconds, even if they are on silent. A message will also appear, signifying that it is only a test.
Drivers could be fined when the Government sends its emergency alert test in September
|GETTY/GOV
It marks only the second time the Government is testing the emergency alert system, which is designed to warn people about life-threatening events including wildfires, severe flooding or extreme storms.
However, National Highways is warning that drivers could find themselves in trouble if they pay attention to the emergency.
Posting on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, the transport organisation highlighted the incoming alert to its 126,000 followers.
The post stated: "Emergency Alerts system national test on Sun 7 Sept at 3pm. Compatible mobile phones and tablets will make a loud, siren-like sound.
The alerts are designed to inform tourists and locals of any emergencies | PA"Driving? Don't reach for or hold your mobile phone. You could be fined, and get points on your licence."
Under new law changes passed in March 2022, the Government toughened rules around drivers using their mobile phones behind the wheel.
The definition of "using" a phone was changed to include illuminating the screen, checking the time or notifications, making a call, receiving or sending a text, and accessing an app.
The law still applies to motorists even if they are stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic or driving a car that turns off the engine when they stop moving.
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People could find themselves being fined in a little-known way, as they must have full attention on the road when supervising a learner driver.
If caught using a mobile phone behind the wheel of a car, drivers can be slapped with six penalty points on their licence, in addition to a £200 fine.
The law extends to using a sat nav, tablet or any other device that can send and receive data while driving a car or riding a motorcycle.
Drivers who have recently passed their tests in the last two years could lose their licence by receiving six points.
Distracted driving can result in a £200 fine from the police as well as penalty points on a licence | GETTYMotorists can also receive three penalty points if their view of the road ahead is obstructed by a device, including a phone or sat nav.
If this instance is taken to court, Britons can even be banned from driving and receive a maximum fine of £1,000. This is hiked to £2,500 if they are driving a lorry or bus.
Commenting on the upcoming emergency alert test, Pat McFadden, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: "Emergency Alerts have the potential to save lives, allowing us to share essential information rapidly in emergency situations including extreme storms.
"Just like the fire alarm in your house, it's important we test the system so that we know it will work if we need it."