What do the different signals mean?

• Seek information. When the sirens sound in series of three with a one-minute break between the series, it means important message – seek information. If you hear this signal, it means in practice that you should try to learn more about the situation. Information about what is happening and how to act is provided through various media such as radio, television, government websites and social media. This signal can be used in times of peace and war. 
• Risk of attack. If the sirens sound in short bursts for about one minute, it means Risk of attack – seek shelter. This signal can be used if there is a risk of air attacks or during war readiness exercises. 
• All clear. When the sirens honk continuously for half a minute, it means that the danger is over. 
• Listen to the different signals on the Civil Defence's website.

The civil defence systems are often referred to as air raid alarms and sirens, and can be used in times of peace and war to warn the population in the event of acute danger. In peacetime, it is the police who make the decision to notify the public. This may be relevant e.g. in the event of gas emissions from industry or dam breaches in water reservoirs. In war, Civil Defence will trigger the warning systems in the event of a risk of attack from air. 

There are approximately 1250 warning systems in Norway. Most are located in cities and towns. The signals will be heard by more than half of the population. 

Test warnings twice a year 

Civil Defence conducts a nationwide warning system test twice a year to ensure that the sirens are working and ready for use. This is done at 12 noon on the second Wednesday in January and June. We are testing the important message – seek information signal.