Residents in and around Duffy may receive a loud emergency warning on their mobile devices on Wednesday as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) tests Australia’s new AusAlert system.

The test will be conducted at 10.30am in Duffy and surrounding areas as part of the rollout of the new national emergency warning platform.

AusAlert uses mobile technology to send emergency messages directly to compatible mobile phones, tablets and smart watches within a defined geographic area during emergencies.

People in and around Duffy may receive a test message that causes their device to vibrate and emit a siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. The message will clearly state that it is a test and that no action is required.

NEMA said the geo-targeted test is designed to ensure the system is functioning correctly before it is needed in a real emergency.

The system is intended to be used during a range of emergencies, including bushfires, floods, cyclones, tsunamis, security incidents, public health emergencies and biosecurity events.

In a real emergency, AusAlert messages will provide information about the nature of the threat, where it is occurring, how serious it is, what action people should take, who issued the warning and where to find further information.

People concerned the test could cause disruption or distress can opt out through the AusAlert website. Alternatively, devices can be turned off or placed in aeroplane mode before the test and left off for at least one hour.

A nationwide AusAlert test is scheduled for July 27.

More information at ausalert.gov.au.