A test alert notification this weekend of the UK’s new warning system could unexpectedly distract road users, potentially causing incidents.

LeasePlan UK is urging fleet managers to speak to their drivers in advance of the test

The test will take place on Sunday 23 April at 3pm, sending an alert siren and warning message to all UK mobile phones and devices.

The new government service is intended to issue warnings in the event of a life-threatening situation in the future, such as flooding or wildfires. Alerts may see mobile phones or tablets make a loud siren-like sound, even if they’re set on silent, vibrate and read out the alert. The sound and vibration will last for about 10 seconds.

However, there are concerns that unexpected alerts could cause drivers, motorcyclists or cyclists to reach for their phone; and even those expecting messages may still be distracted.

LeasePlan UK is urging fleet managers to speak to their drivers in advance of the test to ensure that they know when it will take place, what is going to happen and provide a reminder to drivers what the approach should be in line with existing mobile phone use policy.

The Government has reminded road users that it’s illegal to use a hand-held device while driving or riding and that they shouldn’t read or respond to emergency alerts while driving or riding.

In addition, motorway signs will be used to advise drivers not to check their phones and devices.

The test alert can be turned off via smart phone settings, under Notifications [Extreme Alerts / Severe Alerts ] but the Government is hoping that most people will keep the option activated to allow warnings to be issued in the event of a life-threatening situation in the future.

LeasePlan added: “While the new warning system has the potential to save lives, it is important that motorists are aware of the test – and that fleet managers look at current mobile phone and distracted driving policies so they are confident that as technology evolves, their policy has too.”