Get ready · alert channels
Recognising the alert
Siren, phone alert, weather warning: learn to recognise official signals so you react in the right minute.
Siren — national alert signal
What it looks like. A rising-and-falling modulated sound, repeated in three sequences (about 1 min 41 each). A steady 30-second tone signals the all-clear.
What it means. An imminent danger near you: take shelter without waiting.
What to do. Get inside, close doors and windows, listen to public-service radio, and don't go to collect your children from school.
Mobile alert (EU-Alert / cell broadcast)
What it looks like. A loud sound and a vibration on your phone, with no app installed and even when the data network is congested.
What it means. The authorities are warning you of a danger in the area where you are.
What to do. Read the whole message and follow the instructions exactly. Don't call the emergency services back just for information.
Weather warnings (Meteoalarm)
What it looks like. A colour code — yellow, orange, red — on weather and flood warning maps.
What it means. The expected level of danger (storm, flood, heatwave, snow-ice, wind…).
What to do. Adjust your travel and activities, and follow developments through official sources.
Depending on your country
112 works across the whole European Union. Each country also has its own numbers and mobile alert. Pick yours: