The Norwegian Civil Defence tests its public warning system (air raid sirens) twice a year, in January and in June, to check that the system is working and repair faulty equipment. On Wednesday 11 January at 12.00, the signal ‘Important message – seek information’ will be tested in all municipalities equipped with such a warning system.
The signal
The siren will sound in three series with one minute of silence between series. This signal means that you should seek information from, for example, radio, television, newspapers, official websites and social media.
Air raid sirens
Norway has 1,250 such air raid sirens with which to warn the population in the event of imminent danger. Most of these warning systems are located in towns and cities, and about half the population of Norway will be able to hear the sirens.