How to set up NL-Alert government warnings on your phone

What is NL-Alert?

NL-Alert is the official emergency alert system of the Dutch government. Through this system, emergency services and authorities can quickly send targeted warning messages to mobile phones in a specific area. It is used for situations where you have to act immediately to get yourself to safety, such as a major fire, a chemical incident or extreme weather.

Unlike the old siren network, which warns everyone in a large area, NL-Alert can send highly targeted messages to only the people who are actually in the affected area. This makes the system more effective and prevents unnecessary panic in areas that are not affected.

How does NL-Alert work?

NL-Alert uses cell broadcast technology. This means the message is broadcast through cell towers to all phones in a certain area, without the government needing to know your phone number. It is not a text message, but a special broadcast that appears directly on your screen with an alarming sound.

When an NL-Alert is sent, all phones within range of the cell tower receive the message at the same time. The message contains information about what is going on and what you should do. Typical instructions are: go inside, close windows and doors, or avoid a certain area.

Setting up NL-Alert on your phone

NL-Alert on iPhone (iOS)

On iPhones NL-Alert is turned on by default, but it is a good idea to check this:

1. Open the Settings app
2. Go to Notifications
3. Scroll all the way down
4. Tap Government Alerts
5. Make sure NL-Alert is turned on

You can also manage AMBER Alerts (for missing children) here. It is recommended to leave both turned on.

NL-Alert on Android

Where the NL-Alert settings are located can differ per Android phone and manufacturer. Here are the most common paths:

Samsung:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Notifications or Apps
3. Tap Emergency alerts or Wireless emergency alerts
4. Make sure NL-Alert or Government alerts is turned on

Other Android phones:

1. Open Settings
2. Use the search function and search for NL-Alert, emergency alert, or emergency alerts
3. Or go to Apps, find the Messages app, and check the settings there

If you cannot find the setting, check your phone's manual or the manufacturer's website.

When is NL-Alert used?

NL-Alert is only used in serious emergencies where people have to act immediately. Examples include:

Industrial accidents

Fires or explosions at factories can release hazardous substances. NL-Alert warns local residents to go inside and close windows and doors.

Extreme weather

During severe storms, flood risk or extreme heat, NL-Alert can be used to warn people and give advice.

Terrorist threat

In the event of a terrorist attack or an acute threat, NL-Alert can be used to inform people in the affected area.

Nuclear incidents

If there are problems with nuclear power plants in the Netherlands or neighboring countries, NL-Alert can give instructions on what to do.

What should you do when you receive an NL-Alert?

1. Stay calm: The message is meant to inform you, not to cause panic.
2. Read the message carefully: It contains specific instructions on what to do.
3. Follow the instructions: Whether it is going inside, avoiding an area or turning on the radio, follow the directions.
4. Look for more information: Go to nos.nl, regional broadcasters, or overheid.nl for updates. Only call 112 if you are in immediate danger.
5. Inform others: If you know people nearby who do not have a phone or may have missed the message, let them know.

Testing NL-Alert

Twice a year, on the first Monday of June and December at 12:00 noon, the government tests the NL-Alert system. You then receive a test message stating that it is a test. This is a good moment to check whether your phone is set up correctly.

If you do not receive a message during a test while you are in the Netherlands, check your settings. It may also be that your phone had no signal or was turned off at that moment.

Troubleshooting common problems

I do not receive NL-Alert messages

First check whether NL-Alert is turned on in your settings. Some older phones do not support NL-Alert. Also check that your phone is not in airplane mode and that you have network coverage.

Can I turn off the sound?

The NL-Alert alarm sound is deliberately piercing to get your attention, even when your phone is on silent. You cannot turn the sound off completely, and that is not the intention either: in an emergency you want to be warned.

Does NL-Alert also work abroad?

NL-Alert is specific to the Netherlands. Abroad, similar systems may exist under other names, such as BE-Alert in Belgium or KATWARN in Germany.

Additional apps and information sources

Besides NL-Alert, there are other ways to stay informed about emergencies:

• Crisis.nl: The government's official website with information about crisis management.
• Burgernet: An app the police use to enlist citizens in searches for missing persons or suspects.
• KNMI weather app: For warnings about extreme weather.
• Rijkswaterstaat water levels app: For information about water levels and flood risks.

Conclusion

NL-Alert is an essential safety system that can help you in emergencies. Make sure it is set up correctly on your phone, so you are always warned when it is needed. Take the test messages seriously as a check that everything works. In an emergency, timely information can make all the difference, and NL-Alert is designed to give you that information when it matters.

Frequently asked questions

Is NL-Alert turned on automatically on my phone?

On most modern smartphones NL-Alert is turned on by default, but it is wise to check this in your settings. Go to Settings and search for emergency alerts or NL-Alert.

Do I get NL-Alert messages even when my phone is on silent?

Yes, NL-Alert messages break through silent mode with an alarming sound. This is designed on purpose so you do not miss important warnings, even when your phone is on silent.

When are the NL-Alert tests held?

The nationwide NL-Alert tests take place on the first Monday of June and December at 12:00 noon. This is a good moment to check whether your phone is set up correctly.

What if I receive an NL-Alert but do not know what to do?

The NL-Alert message always contains instructions on what to do. For more information, you can go to nos.nl or crisis.nl. Only call 112 if you yourself are in immediate danger.