Amid Rising Tensions, Government Urges Citizens to Activate Emergency Alerts on Android and iPhone
Amid Rising Tensions, Government Urges Citizens to Activate Emergency Alerts on Android and iPhone
Learn how to activate Emergency Alert Mode on Android and iPhone devices to stay informed during national crises. A step-by-step guide to enabling life-saving alerts.
As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, with recent missile threats reported in multiple regions, the Indian government has advised all citizens to activate the Emergency Alert Mode on their smartphones. These alerts can deliver critical information in real time during emergencies, including natural disasters, security threats, and air strikes.
On 7 May, India carried out targeted airstrikes at nine strategic locations in Pakistan and PoK in response to the 22 April Pahalgam attack. In retaliation, Pakistan has reportedly launched missile attacks targeting Indian cities. Thankfully, India’s air defense system has effectively intercepted these attempts. Amid this volatile scenario, emergency notifications can serve as a vital lifeline.
Why You Should Activate Emergency Alerts
Smartphones are now integral to daily life, and built-in government alert systems on both Android and iOS devices can provide timely warnings in critical situations. These alerts use a dedicated broadcast network that can deliver messages even when conventional mobile networks are congested.
How to Turn On Emergency Alerts
For Android Users:
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Scroll down and tap on Safety and Emergency.
- Select Wireless Emergency Alerts.
- Enable the toggles for:
- Extreme Weather Warnings
- Imminent Threat Alerts
- Public Safety Alerts
- Test Alerts
If you can’t locate this menu, use the search bar in your Settings app and type “Wireless Emergency Alerts”.
For iPhone (iOS) Users:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Notifications.
- Scroll to the bottom and find Government Alerts.
- Turn on the switches for:
- Emergency Alerts
- Public Safety Alerts
- Test Alerts
Most iPhones have these settings enabled by default, but it’s best to verify manually.
Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
Given the current security climate, enabling emergency alerts is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity. The Indian government continues to issue advisories to ensure public safety. Take a moment to activate this essential feature on your smartphone and ensure you’re not caught off guard in an emergency.
