Sirens, phone alerts: German warning day deemed successful

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt gave a positive assessment on Thursday of the country's nationwide warning day, an annual test of alarm signals to practice for emergencies, reported dpa.

Across the country, people received warning messages at 11 am (0900 GMT) on their mobile phones and smart devices, which emitted loud alarm tones.

Sirens sounded in many locations and the public was informed via television, radio and digital display boards. The official all-clear came 45 minutes later, according to plan.

"Our warning systems work reliably, reach our population through a wide variety of channels and are an important part of our powerful civil defence," Dobrindt said in an initial assessment of the sixth annual test.

The authorities use the exercise to check whether they can effectively reach the public in an emergency such as a natural disaster or a military attack on Germany.

Afterwards, citizens can share their personal experiences and provide feedback on a dedicated website.