General alert
The "general alert" signal is sounded when there is a possible threat to the population. It signals to the population that they should turn on the radio and follow instructions from the authorities. The general alert signal is a regular ascending and descending tone. It lasts for one minute and is repeated once after a two-minute interval. An announcement is made via radio or the local authorities when the danger has passed and emergency measures have been relaxed or lifted. Behaviour to adopt when the general alert is raised:
- listen to the radio,
- follow instructions issued by the authorities (look also at "what to do in the event of an impending threat" sheet, which can be found at the back of the Swiss telephon,
- directory),
- inform your neighbours.
Water alert
Should there be a risk of flooding, people living downhill from dams are alerted by special sirens and the "water alert" alarm signal. The signal consists of low continuous twenty-second tones at ten-second intervals. Behaviour to adopt when the water alert is sounded:
- Leave the at-risk area immediately,
- Follow local guidelines or instructions.