Swiss Passport

Living in Switzerland · School and everyday life

Emergency numbers and sirens

Topic

In an emergency, you must quickly dial the right number. 117 is the police emergency number. 118 is the fire service. 144 is the ambulance service, in other words emergency medical services with an ambulance. The European emergency number 112 also works. Rega, the helicopter rescue service, can be reached on 1414. Emergency numbers are free of charge.

When there is great danger to the population, for example in a chemical accident, the sirens sound. This is the general alarm. You should then listen to the radio or open the Alertswiss app and follow the instructions of the authorities. You should also inform your neighbours. Once a year, in February, the sirens are tested.

Memory aid: Remember the order: 117 police, 118 fire service, 144 ambulance. When the sirens sound: turn on the radio.

Key terms

117
117: emergency number of the police.
144
144: emergency number of the ambulance service.
Allgemeiner Alarm
General alarm: siren alarm in case of danger; listen to the radio, follow instructions, inform your neighbours.

Exam questions on this topic

  1. What does the number 117 stand for in Switzerland?Correct answer: A, for the police emergency number
  2. What does the number 144 stand for in Switzerland?Correct answer: A, for the ambulance emergency number
  3. What should you do when the alarm sirens sound in a real emergency?Correct answer: B, listen to the radio

Sources