Even though authorities can now disseminate messages via digital alert channels such as apps or websites, sirens remain the core element in the overall system for alerting and warning the population. Their wake-up function is particularly important at night. In crises and emergencies, authorities must be able to warn, alert and inform the affected population quickly, reliably and over a wide area – regardless of power failures or mobile phone coverage.

Emergencies or disasters such as an accident at a power plant or chemical factory can occur at any time and usually happen without warning. At the end of December 2020, for example, there was a drinking water contamination incident in the canton of Zurich, during which the population was alerted and informed using mobile sirens. To ensure that this warning infrastructure works in an emergency, around 5,000 stationary and 2,200 mobile sirens are tested throughout Switzerland every February – the siren test not only serves to raise awareness among the population, but also to check the technical functionality of the systems.

Kockum Sonics is the right partner for cantonal and municipal authorities that detect technical irregularities during the annual siren test or wish to modernise their siren systems, whether for expert advice, troubleshooting technical problems, replacing outdated systems or planning new siren projects. In the event of a system malfunction, please fill in the form at the bottom of this page.

How many different alarm signals are there?

Compared to the past, there are now only two different alarm signals. As standard, every siren system is equipped with the general alarm signal (AA). In endangered areas such as flood zones, for example below water retention facilities, the water alarm signal (WA) is also programmed. A combination siren contains both alarm signals.

How should you react to a real siren alarm?

If the general alarm sounds outside of the announced siren test, this means that there is a potential danger to the population. In this case, the population is asked to listen to the radio, obtain information via the Alertswiss app, follow the instructions of the authorities and notify their neighbours.

A water alarm means that there is an immediate danger, for example below a dam. In this case, the population is asked to leave the endangered area immediately. The population in the affected areas is informed in advance with leaflets about escape routes and assembly points.

What happens in the event of a power failure?

Alarms and warnings can still be issued even during a prolonged power and network failure. Modern siren systems are designed for high operational reliability. They are equipped with batteries and state-of-the-art technology and can be operated independently of the mains power supply (for at least 5 days). Regular testing of the systems to detect age-related performance losses at an early stage ensures long-term, reliable functionality. The central remote triggering system is specially secured, and the SRG also has a corresponding emergency system in place. In addition to siren alarms, the Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP) refers to other means of alerting the public, such as loudspeakers, messengers or leaflets. The federal government also recommends keeping a transistor radio with spare batteries on hand.

What does a company from the Zurich Oberland have to do with the siren test?

Kockum Sonics AG, based in Wallisellen, has been developing, producing, installing and maintaining siren systems for alerting and warning the Swiss population since 1961. More than 3,500 Kockum Sonics sirens are currently in use throughout Switzerland.

In addition to development and installation, operation and maintenance are crucial for the long-term functionality of this safety-critical infrastructure. Sirens are designed for high reliability, but are rarely triggered in everyday life – structured maintenance helps to detect age-related wear and tear, battery ageing and technical deviations at an early stage. Together with the federal government, cantons and municipalities, Kockum Sonics AG ensures that siren systems are regularly inspected, professionally maintained and repaired quickly when necessary. Preventive maintenance helps to maintain long-term functionality and avoid unplanned deployments.

Is there a system malfunction on your system?

If there is a system malfunction, please notify us using the following form. We will process your report as quickly as possible and contact you.