The outdoor alarm system
In the event of truly serious incidents, war, or air raids, the outdoor alarm can be used. Learn the different alarm signals and what to do if you hear them.
The outdoor alarm system consists of approximately 4,500 sirens located throughout Sweden on rooftops or other tall buildings. The sirens are tested four times a year—on the first Monday (excluding holidays) in March, June, September, and December at 3:00 p.m. The outdoor alarm system has four different alarm signals.
Important public announcement
A 7-second signal followed by a 14-second pause. Stops after 14 seconds.
If you hear the signal, you should:
- go indoors.
- close all windows, doors, and, if possible, ventilation systems.
- listen to Sveriges Radio P4, watch TV, or check teletext.
- check the website Krisinformation.se for information. You can also call the information number 113 13.
Listen: Important Announcement
Emergency alert
A signal lasting 30 seconds followed by a 15-second pause. Stops after 5 minutes.
If you hear the signal, you should:
- Go indoors and listen to Sveriges Radio P4. An emergency alert means that the highest level of alert is in effect throughout the country.
- If you are subject to military or civil service, you must immediately proceed to the location specified in your mobilization order.
- If you are mobilized at your workplace, you must follow your employer’s instructions.
Air raid alarm
Short signals for one minute.
If you hear this signal, you should:
Go immediately to the nearest shelter, basement, or other protected location. You are better protected indoors than outdoors, preferably in a room without windows.
All clear
A long, continuous signal lasting 30 seconds.
Sources
Sources
Krisinformation.se gathers information from Swedish authorities. All source pages are in Swedish.