How to Type the Warning Symbol ⚠ on Your Keyboard (Windows & Mac)
The warning symbol (⚠) is used to show caution, risk, or something that needs attention (like safety notices, instructions, and alerts).
In this guide, you’ll learn how to type or insert the warning sign on:
- Windows
- Mac
- Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Google Docs
- Plus quick copy & paste options
Quick note: the warning sign is a Unicode character: U+26A0. Compart
Warning Symbol ⚠ Quick Copy
What’s the difference?
- ⚠ = default warning sign
- ⚠︎ = “text-style” version
- ⚠️ = “emoji-style” version
Warning Symbol ⚠ Quick Reference
- Symbol: ⚠
- Unicode: U+26A0
- Fastest method (any device): Copy and paste
- Best method in Word (Windows): 26A0 then Alt + X
- Best method in Windows apps: Windows Emoji/Symbol panel (Win + .)
- Best method on Mac: Character Viewer (Control + Command + Space)
Method 1: Copy and paste ⚠ (fastest)
- Copy the symbol: ⚠
- Paste it anywhere:
- Windows: Ctrl + V
- Mac: Command + V
This works in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, emails, social media, and most apps.
Method 2: Type ⚠ in Microsoft Word (Windows) using 26A0 + Alt + X
This is one of the easiest ways to type the warning symbol inside Word.
- Open Microsoft Word
- Click exactly where you want the symbol to appear
- Type: 26A0
- Press: Alt + X
Word will convert the code into ⚠.
If it doesn’t convert:
- Make sure you typed 26A0 (not 26AO)
- Highlight 26A0 with your mouse, then press Alt + X again
Method 3: Insert ⚠ using the Symbol dialog (Word / Excel / PowerPoint)
This works across Microsoft Office apps.
- Click where you want the symbol
- Go to Insert → Symbol → More Symbols
- In the Font dropdown, choose Segoe UI Symbol (or try other symbol-friendly fonts)
- In the Character code box, type 26A0
- Click Insert, then Close
Tip: If the symbol shows as a blank box ▢, it’s usually a font issue. Switch to a different font (Segoe UI Symbol is a good one in Office).
Method 4: Type ⚠ on Windows using the Emoji/Symbol panel (works in most apps)
This method works in many places outside Word (like browsers, Google Docs, Notepad, etc.).
- Click where you want the symbol
- Press Windows key + . (Windows + period)
- In the panel that opens, choose Symbols
- Browse the symbols or use the search box and try typing warning
- Click the symbol to insert it
Method 5: Type ⚠ on Mac (Character Viewer)
This is the easiest Mac method for most people.
- Click where you want the symbol
- Press Control + Command + Space
- A character panel will open
- Search for warning
- Double-click ⚠ to insert it
Method 6: Insert ⚠ in Google Docs
- Open your Google Doc
- Click where you want the symbol
- Go to Insert → Special characters
- Type warning in the search box
- Click the warning symbol to insert it
FAQs
Why does “26A0 + Alt + X” work in Word but not in other apps?
Because Alt + X is a Microsoft Word feature that converts Unicode codes into symbols. Most other apps don’t support that exact conversion.
Why do I see a blank box instead of ⚠?
That usually means your current font doesn’t support the symbol. Try changing the font (especially in Office) to a symbol-friendly font like Segoe UI Symbol.
Which warning symbol should I use: ⚠, ⚠︎, or ⚠️?
Use ⚠ in most normal documents.
Use ⚠️ if you want the emoji-looking version (common in chats and social posts).