SCDF emergency broadcast system testing spooks Singaporean
A routine emergency broadcast system test by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) on 10 May ended up startling at least one Singaporean, after a loud emergency alert unexpectedly blared through their phone.
Singaporean startled by SG Alert testing
In a TikTok post by @fizi_solefemod on 10 May, the Original Poster (OP) shared a screenshot of the notification, with the text overlay saying “This alert scared me bro”.
The OP also expressed his shock in the caption accompanying the post, noting that “this came out of nowhere”.
They also asked if the alert affected all devices in Singapore.
Source: @fizi_solefemod on TikTok
The notification stated that it was a system test of the Cell Broadcast Emergency Notification System (SG Alert) by the SCDF.
It also informed the receiver of the notification to not be alarmed and that no action was required.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” the notification said.
Other netizens also startled by alert
The clip quickly gained traction, with netizens sharing their own experiences of receiving the alert.
One netizen shared that their entire tuition class screamed, and the teacher was also shocked upon receiving the alert.
Source: TikTok
Another commenter, who received the message while they were taking a nap, even thought they were in mortal danger.
Source: TikTok
However, one TikTok user said they did not receive the message, to which the OP explained that only Singtel users got it.
Source: TikTok
Part of nationwide test of SG Alert system
The broadcast message was part of an island-wide test of Singapore’s SG Alert system. An earlier message was also sent on 8 May to inform Singtel users about the test.
SG Alert is a a mobile emergency broadcast platform designed to rapidly inform the public during major incidents such as fires, chemical hazards, or terror threats.
Screenshot provided by MS News reader
According to SCDF, the test was held at 12pm and targeted users on the Singtel network as part of the system’s phased rollout.
The alert appeared as a pop-up message with a distinctive tone and vibration lasting up to 10 seconds. It also overrode “Do Not Disturb” and silent settings to ensure it was noticed.
SCDF also plans to launch SG Alert on StarHub by end 2026, followed by M1 and SIMBA by mid 2027.
Also read: 56% Of S’poreans Unaware Of Public Warning Systems, Unsure What To Do: Poll
56% Of S’poreans Unaware Of Public Warning Systems, Unsure What To Do: Poll
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image adapted from Singapore Civil Defence Force on Facebook.
