A test of the newly announced UK emergency alert system is scheduled for next month.

The new alert system, intended to address risks like flooding and wildfires, is increasing the UK's "national resilience," according to the government. A nationwide emergency alert program is being introduced in the UK today, with a test scheduled for April 23.

According to the government, alerts would be delivered directly to mobile phones throughout the UK to inform people of potentially fatal situations like wildfires and major flooding.

These will only originate from the government or emergency services and will provide information on the affected area and guidelines for reacting.

"With a new emergency warnings system, we are strengthening our nation's ability to endure numerous dangers, such as wildfires and flooding," said Oliver Dowden, Governor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

"It will revolutionize how we can alert and notify those in immediate danger, enhancing public safety.

"The phone buzz can save a life, as we've seen in the US and abroad." The warnings, successfully trialed in Reading and East Suffolk, will only be delivered when there is an immediate risk to life, so there may be weeks, months, or even years between them.

According to the government, the warnings won't reveal anyone's location or collect personal data. They will also be safe to receive and free.

You may already sign up to have the Environment Agency in England and its equivalents in Scotland and Wales send flood warnings directly to your mobile device.

We've seen this kind of technology in action elsewhere worldwide, and we look forward to having the facilities here in the UK, said Mark Hardingham, chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council.

"We want this system to allow us to help you be as safe as possible if a crisis does come. By working together with fire services and others."

Caroline Douglass, the Environment Agency's executive director for flood and coastal erosion risk management, stated: "It is really important to communicate warnings in a timely and accurate manner during incidents to help people take action to prevent themselves, their families, and their neighbors."