Access to communication during a crisis

In the event of a serious accident or crisis, you need to know what is happening, how to act, and what government authorities are doing. You may also need to get in touch with your relatives.
Updated
Foto: P M Persson/ Johnér

For those who do not speak Swedish

Authorities in Sweden, also the municipalities, will be able to answer questions in English. There is no guarantee that information will be available in other languages. 

Radio Sweden is the Swedish Radio's foreign language channel. In the event of disturbances and emergencies, Radio Sweden can publish and broadcast information in many languages.  If you do not speak Swedish, you can always phone information number 113 13 and get answers to your questions in English. Krisinformation.se will publish information from Swedish authorities in Swedish and English.

Keep up to date 

In a crisis, it's especially important that you can access important public information. Your local P4 channel will give you information on the situation, local weather forecasts, where to get water, where to seek help and whether to evacuate. Normally, this information is in Swedish. 

To stay informed during a crisis:

  • Battery-, solar- or crank-powered radio
  • car radio
  • hard-copy list of important telephone numbers
  • extra battery/power bank for mobile phones and other devices 
  • phone charger for car use

Communication without electricity

Municipalities are required to inform those living, working or staying within its boundaries in the event of a serious incident, and should be able to quickly post information on its website. However, in the event of a power outage, the task becomes more difficult. The municipality can use everything from flyers to townhall meetings and staff to convey important information.

Municipal security points in case of crisis

In some places, special security points ("Trygghetspunkter") are opened in case of a crisis. This could be in a school, gymnasium, community centre or church. Services provided differ. At some security points, you will be able to get information, shelter, drinking water, or even food. The shelters are staffed by volunteers and municipal or church staff. You can find out in advance if your municipality has security points and where they are located.

Charge your electrical appliances in advance

If you hear that a storm is coming, take the opportunity to charge everything you can in advance. A power bank or other kind of extra battery for your mobile phone can be useful.