Warning systems
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Important public announcement (IPA)
The IPA alarm can be used when something serious has happened. For example, if a factory has caught fire and toxic smoke is spreading or if there is a risk of an explosion. If the important message concerns the area where you are, follow the instructions of the authorities.
You can receive IPA:s in several ways:
- via outdoor alarm via the Hesa Fredrik horn (only for really serious events)
- via radio and TV
- via SMS to your mobile phone if used in the affected area
- from Krisinformation.se via web, app and social media
- as a notification in the Swedish Radio app SR Play, or via the SOS Alarm app 112.
The Hesa Fredrik outdoor alarm
In the event of really serious incidents, war and air raids, the Hesa Fredrik outdoor alarm can be used. It consists of around 4,500 horns located on rooftops or other tall buildings throughout Sweden. The horns are tested four times a year - at 15.00 on the first Monday in March, June, September and December. Hesa Fredrik has four different alarm signals.
Important public announcement
Signal for 7 seconds and pause for 14 seconds. Stops after 14 seconds.
If you hear the signal, you should:
- go indoors.
- close all windows, doors and, if possible, ventilation.
- listen to Swedish Radio P4 or watch TV or teletext.
- read information on the website Krisinformation.se.
- access information from the information number 113 13.
Emergency alarm
Signal for 30 seconds and pause for 15 seconds. Stops after 5 minutes.
If you hear the signal, you should:
- go inside and listen to Swedish Radio P4. Emergency alert means that there is maximum alert throughout the country.
- If you are part of the military or civil defence service you must immediately go to the place you have been told about in your wartime posting.
- if you are wartime posted at your workplace, you must follow your employer's instructions.
Aircraft alarm
Short signals for one minute.
If you hear the signal, you should:
Get to the nearest shelter, basement or other protected place immediately. You are better protected indoors than outdoors, preferably in a room without windows.
Danger over
Long unbroken signal for 30 seconds.
Source: The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB)