Civil protection
Warning system
The basic capabilities of critical importance of civil protection and ensuring the survival of the population include mass evacuation and seeking shelter. The capability of a state to warn the people who are in an area at risk via warning messages is very important.
The state uses a variety of channels and tools that allow as many people as possible to be warned of a threat in a timely manner:
- the media
- the websites and social media channels of authorities
- warning sirens
- mobile phone messages (EE-alarm) and phone calls
- loudspeaker notification
- door-to-door notification
Instructions for action in the case of a threat notification can be found from the ‘Ole Valmis’ website or app.
National warning siren system
The Estonian Rescue Board started developing a national warning siren system in the spring of 2022. The aim is to develop a system that would allow reaching the largest possible number of members of the public and that could be activated centrally. The siren is used when there is an immediate danger to a person’s life, for example, in the case of large-scale accidents or emergency situations (such as a radiation accident or an accident involving hazardous chemicals), but they can also be used in the case of a military threat. The national warning siren system will be completed in 2023.
The siren-based alarm system will be installed in 22 settlements: Tallinn and its surroundings, Tartu, Narva, Pärnu, Võru, Paldiski, Sillamäe, Tapa, Jõhvi, Kohtla-Järve, Maardu (including Muuga), Rakvere, Valga, Keila, Viljandi, Jõgeva, Põlva, Rapla, Kärdla, Kuressaare, Haapsalu, and Paide. In the future, the Estonian Rescue Board wants to expand the system to all major cities.