Country guide
Emergencies in Switzerland
Which number to call, how alerts reach you and which risks to prepare for in Switzerland. In short, with links to the official sources.
Emergency number112, 117 (police), 118 (fire), 144 (ambulance)
Phone alertsAlertswissCheck your phone settings to make sure emergency alerts are switched on.
Civil protectionAlertswiss (BABS)
Weather warningsMeteoSchweiz
Main hazards
-
Severe storms
High winds, fallen trees and power cuts. Shelter away from windows.
Thunderstorms, wind and hail → -
Winter storms and cold
Blocked roads and multi-day power cuts. Keep supplies at home and in the car.
Winter storms and extreme cold → -
Heatwaves
Most victims are older people living alone. Water, shade and checking on neighbors.
Heatwave safety → -
Earthquakes
They strike without warning. Secure tall furniture and learn Drop, Cover and Hold On.
What to do in an earthquake →
The basics, wherever you live
Other countries
We review this data regularly, but rules and numbers can change. If in doubt, follow your local authorities.