Motorists could be slapped with fines reaching £1,000 - or as much as £2,500 for those operating lorries or buses - if they're caught handling their phones during this weekend's emergency alert test.

The nationwide trial takes place on Sunday, September 7, at 3pm, when millions of mobile devices will blare an alarm designed to alert people to serious dangers.

At precisely that moment, smartphones throughout the UK will blast out a loud, siren-style sound and vibrate as part of a Government Emergency Alert trial.

The system has been created to notify the public about life-threatening emergencies, including serious flooding or wildfires.

Road safety specialist Sarah Jenkins has advised drivers to "ignore the siren and keep driving safely.", reports Birmingham Live .

Those startled by

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