This year, the Danish Emergency Management Agency expects a significant increase in the number of Danes receiving mobile alerts during the annual siren system test, which takes place on the first Wednesday of May. Last year, about two out of three Danes received a test warning on their mobile phones, but this year that number is expected to rise to 80 percent. The annual test, carried out in collaboration between the National Police (Rigspolitiet) and the Danish Emergency Management Agency, is not just a technical exercise, but also an important reminder to the population of how to react in a real emergency.
“It is essential that people know what to do if they hear the sirens at a different time than during the test,” explains Lars Aabjerg Pedersen, the Communications Manager at the Danish Emergency Management Agency. Last year was the first time that mobile alerts were tested as part of the siren test, and many missed the warning due to outdated operating systems on their smartphones.
“We have seen a higher rate of operating system updates in the past year, and therefore expect more people to receive the warning this year,” says Lars Aabjerg Pedersen. In Denmark, there are around 1,000 physical warning sirens covering approximately 80% of the population. Mobile alerts offer a unique advantage as they can reach people directly on their devices, no matter where they are. This is especially important in situations where people may not be near a physical siren.
During the test, which starts precisely at 12 o’clock, the first warning signal will sound, followed by an all-clear signal. These signals are designed to inform that there is danger present and when the danger has passed.
“It is important to emphasize that if you hear the siren at a different time, you should immediately seek indoors and turn on DR or TV 2 for more information,” Lars Aabjerg Pedersen adds. For those who wish to avoid the mobile alert, it is recommended to turn off the mobile phone before 12 o’clock and not turn it back on until 12:20.
With this increased effort, the Danish Emergency Management Agency hopes to improve preparedness and safety in Denmark so that all citizens know how to act in case of an emergency.