Testing sirens - 05.02.2025 - from 1.30 pm

© 2025 EPFL
Test day - first Wednesday in February
Every year, on the first Wednesday in February, all sirens across Switzerland are tested. The aim is to ascertain the operational readiness of both the "General Alarm" and the "Water Alarm" sirens. The population is notified beforehand through announcements on the radio, on TV and in the press. The general public is not required to adopt a particular behaviour or take protective measures, but simply asked in advance for their understanding of the inconvenience caused by the noise of the sirens.
Two alarm signals
At 1.30 p.m. the "General Alarm" signal is sounded across Switzerland. This is a regular ascending and descending tone, which lasts for one minute, and is repeated once after a two-minute interval. Where necessary, the sirens can continue to be tested until 2 p.m. From 2.15 p.m. to 3 p.m. (at the latest), the "Water Alarm" signal is tested in those areas that are in the proximity of dams. It consists of twelve low continuous tones lasting twenty seconds and repeated at ten-second intervals. The operational readiness of a total of 7200 sirens is tested.
When the "General Alarm" is sounded other than at the appointed test time, it means that there is a possible threat to the population. It signals to the population that they should turn on the radio and follow instructions from the authorities and to notify their neighbours. The "Water Alarm" is only sounded after the "General Alarm" and means that the area at risk should be evacuated immediately.
Download the Alertswiss App
The national Alertswiss app sends alerts, warnings and information on dangers and hazards directly to users smartphones.
For more information :Testing sirens