The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is set to carry out its annual nationwide test of the Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA) system this Sunday evening between 6 pm and 7 pm.

The purpose of this test is to ensure the effectiveness and functionality of the EMA system, as well as the ability of cell towers and mobile devices to receive emergency alerts.

It is estimated that over 5 million phones across Aotearoa New Zealand will receive the test alert, reaching approximately 90% of the population.

The Emergency Mobile Alert system serves as a vital information channel, delivering alerts to individuals regarding threats to their life, health, or property.

During emergencies, targeted alerts can be sent to specific areas affected by serious hazards.

If an individual receives an alert, it is crucial to take it seriously, stop what they are doing, and carefully read the message.

The alert will provide essential information about the emergency, instructions on what to do, the agency that sent the message, and additional sources for further information if required.

Emergency Mobile Alerts are not meant to replace other means of staying informed, such as traditional media and online platforms, but rather to complement them.

It is important for individuals to remain proactive in obtaining information through various channels and to take immediate action if they believe their life is in danger, even without an official warning.

During the nationwide test, Emergency Mobile Alerts will be sent to all areas in New Zealand with mobile coverage, showcasing the system's geo-targeting capability.

This ensures that alerts are received only by individuals in the specific regions affected by the emergency.

To receive Emergency Mobile Alerts, individuals do not need to subscribe or download a specific app.

They simply need to ensure that their mobile phones are turned on and capable of receiving alerts, with the operating system up to date.

To check if their phones are compatible with Emergency Mobile Alerts, individuals can visit the website https://getready.govt.nz/en/prepared/stay-informed/emergency-mobile-alert/capable-phones/.

It is important to note that individuals in New Zealand cannot opt out of the Emergency Mobile Alert system.

This is because the country utilizes a special broadcast channel that is permanently active, prioritizing public safety.

While optional settings for opting out may appear on certain phones, they are not applicable within New Zealand.

Authorized entities, including the National Emergency Management Agency, Local Civil Defence Emergency Management Groups, NZ Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Ministry of Health, and Ministry for Primary Industries, are the only ones permitted to send Emergency Mobile Alerts.

These alerts are only dispatched in situations where there are serious threats to life, health, and property, and also for test purposes, as in this month's nationwide exercise.

In addition to Emergency Mobile Alerts, it is crucial for individuals to continue relying on other alerting channels such as radio, television, websites, and social media.

These channels provide comprehensive and diverse sources of information.

Individuals should always be prepared to take immediate action if they feel their life may be in danger, even if an official warning has not been issued.

Remember the phrase, "Long or strong, get gone," indicating the importance of recognizing natural warning signs and acting swiftly during potential tsunamis or earthquakes.

To enhance personal preparedness, individuals are encouraged to develop their own emergency plans, which should include necessary actions, designated safe locations, and individuals who can provide assistance or require help.

An online emergency planning tool is available at https://getready.govt.nz/plan/ to assist individuals in creating their customized emergency plans.