How To Turn Off Emergency Alerts On An iPhone

Written by Claire Smith

• 

Posted on August 27 2023

Step-By-Step-Guide. 

 

Emergency alerts on iPhones are an essential feature designed to keep you informed about critical situations in your area. These alerts include Amber Alerts, Emergency Alerts, and Public Safety Alerts, which provide vital information during emergencies. However, there might be times when you need to temporarily disable these alerts, especially if they're causing disruptions during meetings, presentations, or quiet moments. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to turn off emergency alerts on your iPhone.

 

Step 1: Open Settings

 

Begin by unlocking your iPhone and locating the "Settings" app on your home screen. It looks like a gear icon and is usually located on the first page or in a folder.

 

Step 2: Scroll Down to "Notifications"

 

Once you're in the Settings app, scroll down to find the "Notifications" option. This is where you can manage all the notifications for various apps and system features.

 

Step 3: Scroll Down and Tap on "Emergency Alerts"

 

 Within the "Notifications" settings, scroll down until you find the "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alerts" option. This is where you can control the settings related to emergency alerts.

 

Step 4: Toggle Off the Types of Alerts You Want to Disable

 

 Under the "Government Alerts" or "Emergency Alerts" section, you will see various types of alerts that you can receive, such as AMBER Alerts, Emergency Alerts, and Public Safety Alerts. Each of these will have a toggle switch next to them.

To turn off a specific type of alert, simply tap the toggle switch to the off position. The switch will turn gray when it's off.

 

Step 5: Don't Forget to Save Changes

 

 After you've turned off the alerts you want to disable, there's no need to save the changes. Your iPhone will automatically save any modifications you make in the settings.

 

Step 6: Reversing the Changes

 

 If you ever want to turn the emergency alerts back on, you can follow the same steps outlined above and toggle the switches to the on position.

 

Note: Important Considerations

 

While turning off emergency alerts can be helpful in certain situations, it's crucial to remember that these alerts are designed to keep you safe and informed during critical events. Therefore, consider the following before disabling them:

 

1. Use Discretion: Only turn off emergency alerts when necessary, and be sure to re-enable them afterward to stay informed about potential emergencies.

2. AMBER Alerts: AMBER Alerts are issued for missing children and should be taken seriously. It's advisable to keep them enabled.

3. Public Safety Alerts: These alerts provide crucial information during disasters or emergencies. Consider leaving them on but adjusting their settings to minimize disruptions.

 

Conclusion

 

Emergency alerts on iPhones are an essential tool for staying informed and safe during critical situations. While you can disable them temporarily when needed, it's essential to use this feature responsibly and be aware of the potential consequences of turning off certain alerts. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage your emergency alert settings on your iPhone and strike a balance between staying informed and managing interruptions.