Emergency Mobile Alert live nationwide test today

The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management is reminding the public that New Zealand’s first official live nationwide test of Emergency Mobile Alert will be conducted tonight between 6 and 7 pm.

We estimate around one third of phones are expected to be able to receive the test message, and this number will rise over time as people replace their devices. Before we test the system, visit the www.civildefence.govt.nz and check whether your phone can receive the alerts and ensure your phone is on the most up-to-date operating system.

Emergency Mobile Alert has been developed as an additional channel to alert people when their life, health or property may be under threat in emergencies.

What you need to know:

• There is no need to sign up or download an app. If your phone is on, capable of receiving them and inside the targeted area, you should get the alerts. You can find out whether your phone can receive the alerts at www.civildefence.govt.nz and ensure your phone is on the most up to date operating system.

• They can also be targeted to affected areas, so you will only get them if the emergency is in your area.
• As Emergency Mobile Alert is about keeping you safe, you won’t be able to opt-out. Your phones may show optional settings used in other countries, but in New Zealand we will use a special broadcast channel that is permanently on.
• Emergency Mobile Alert messages can only be sent by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management, Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups, NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry for Primary Industries.
• Emergency Mobile Alert is an additional channel to help keep New Zealand safe in an emergency and does not replace other alerting systems, or the need to take action after natural warnings. If you feel your life may be in danger, don’t wait for an official warning. Take immediate action. Remember – Long or strong, get gone.
• If you are driving when you receive an alert, wait until it is safe to stop and then check the message.
• Take the time to make your own emergency plan which includes what to do, where to go, who can help you and who might need your help. You can make a plan online at www.happens.nz.

Find out more about Emergency Mobile Alerts at www.civildefence.govt.nz.

ENDS

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