Each week at primary school, assemblies and classroom discussions offer a valuable opportunity to connect with current events while developing essential life skills. For the week of 17th April – 23rd April 2023, a significant topic comes from recent UK news: the test of a new emergency alerts system. This blog explores the assembly theme, how it can be discussed in class, and ways pupils can reflect on emergency situations and the role of technology and services in helping keep us safe. This Week’s Big Story: Emergency Alerts Test in the UK On Sunday, 23rd April, mobile phones and other devices across the UK will unexpectedly emit a loud, siren-like sound. This is part of the UK Government’s test of its new emergency alerts system. The alerts are intended to broadcast alarms and provide emergency advice, warning people about dangers such as fires or flooding that could threaten life. This latest test follows a series of local trials, and if successful, the system could be used nationally in the future. The government hopes this may become “the sound that saves your life.” How Does the Emergency Alert System Work? When activated, your device will play a loud siren sound even if set to silent. The alert will last around ten seconds. To use your phone again, you’ll be required to acknowledge the message. The test on 23rd April is part of the official rollout of the alerts service. Notably, similar emergency alert systems are already in use around the world, including in the Philippines for typhoons and flooding, Greece and France for fires, and the USA for dangerous weather like hurricanes and tornadoes. What Situations Are Considered Emergencies? In the UK, the most common emergencies include flooding, fires, and other sudden events. Emergencies are defined as serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situations requiring immediate action. For primary pupils, it’s important to distinguish between emergencies and urgent but less dangerous situations, such as losing keys or suffering a toothache. The Role of Emergency Services The UK’s emergency services include three primary organisations: Fire and Rescue Service: Prevents fires and accidents, responds to emergencies like floods, and provides safety advice. Police Service: Protects property, solves crimes, and ensures community safety by maintaining laws. Emergency Medical Services: Ambulance teams and emergency departments (A&E) treat serious illnesses or injuries requiring immediate attention. Other organisations, such as the Coastguard Rescue Service, also play roles in keeping people safe. Potential Emergency Situations to Discuss During assemblies and class discussions, teachers can provide various examples of emergencies, including: Large downpours leading to flooding Fires in buildings Car breakdowns causing road blocks Power outages Major health emergencies Stolen property Gas smells at home Pupils are encouraged to discuss which situations count as emergencies, who they might affect, how serious they are, and who could help. Classroom Discussion Ideas Assemblies and lessons on this topic can invite pupils to: Share what they know about emergency services and past experiences Evaluate the new emergency alert system—do they think it’s a good idea? Define what constitutes an emergency in their own words Consider how people respond differently in emergencies Prepare risk assessments for school activities Practice calling emergency services and remembering key information (like their address) Promoting Safety and Liberty Emergency situations, though stressful, are a part of life. Warning alerts can help people respond quickly. Everyone has the right to live in a safe environment, and technology like emergency alerts can play a part in achieving this. However, it’s also important to remember not everyone will receive alerts, such as those without mobile phones; alternative ways of warning must be considered. Vocabulary to Learn and Use Device: An object or machine invented for a purpose Emergency: A serious, unexpected, often dangerous situation needing immediate action Siren: A warning device that makes a long, loud sound Roll out: The official launch or introduction of a new product or service Triggered: Caused to work Unexpectedly: In a way that was not expected Reflection Points • Can you prepare for every emergency or just some? • Who helps in emergencies and what special training do they have? • How can you contribute to keeping yourself and others safe? Further Activities and Resources Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training By taking part in assemblies and school discussions on these topics, primary pupils can develop a better understanding of emergencies, the vital role of emergency services, and the importance of readiness and clear communication in times of crisis.
