Annual sirens test in Switzerland

Each year, Switzerland tests its civil protection alert system with a nationwide sirens test. On this day, all general and water alarm sirens are activated simultaneously across the country, allowing authorities to ensure the system works properly and that residents would be alerted in case of a real emergency.

What is the annual sirens test in Switzerland

Every year on the first Wednesday in February, Switzerland carries out a nationwide test of its civil protection sirens. This is done to check that the system works reliably in the event of a real emergency. The test covers both the general alarm used for broad warnings and the water alarm in areas at risk below dams. Nationwide announcements are made in advance on radio, TV and in the press to let people know when it will happen.

When and how the test is conducted

The annual test typically happens between early afternoon and late afternoon on the first Wednesday in February. Here’s what you can expect:

• Around 1.30 pm, all sirens across Switzerland sound the general alarm: a rising and falling tone lasting about one minute.
• Where needed the sirens may be repeated until about 2 pm.
• From 2 pm until no later than 4.30 pm, the water alarm is tested in regions near dams. This consists of a series of low continuous tones.
• Both fixed (stationary) and mobile sirens are included, and thousands of units are checked.
• The test also includes notifications via the Alertswiss app to ensure digital alerting systems function properly.

Why the sirens are tested

Regular testing ensures the alert system is ready if it’s needed for an actual emergency, such as a natural disaster, industrial accident or other civil protection situation. It helps authorities identify any malfunctioning units so they can repair or replace them.

What to do when you hear the sirens

During the scheduled annual test, no action is required by the public: it’s purely a check of the system. Sirens can be loud and surprising if you are not familiar with them, but there is no danger associated with these signals during the test.

If you hear a siren outside the announced test window this could indicate a real emergency. In that case:

• Listen to local radio or check official Alertswiss channels for instructions.
• Follow any guidance issued by local authorities.