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What does the siren mean in Denmark and what should you do?

Public warning signals

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Short answer

The Danish warning siren is a tone that rises quickly and falls slowly for 45 seconds, and it means you should go indoors and find information from DR or TV 2. One long, steady tone of 45 seconds means the danger is over. Police can also send S!RENEN alerts to newer phones in the area, telling you what is happening, where and what to do. The sirens and S!RENEN are tested once a year on the first Wednesday in May at 12.00, and the test message on phones is clearly marked as a test.

Practical info

Why

  1. Signal 1 warns, signal 2 gives the all clear.
  2. Phone alerts need no app or sign-up.
  3. Emergency messages also appear on politi.dk.

Details

During the May test the warning signal sounds, is repeated about 3 minutes later, and the all clear follows after another 3 minutes.

Tip

If you hear the siren outside the May test, go inside and open the DR or TV 2 news on your phone.

What may differ

Older phones or phones without the latest system update may not receive S!RENEN alerts.

Common misconception

You have to download an app to get emergency alerts in Denmark.

What actually happens

S!RENEN alerts reach newer phones automatically, with no app, no sign-up and no data stored about you.

People also ask

  • When is the siren test in Denmark?
  • Is it safe to travel to Denmark right now?
  • What is the emergency number in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Laws, fines and rules can change, so check the Danish authorities before you travel.

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