A nationwide public warning test enhances the safety of us all
Over the past four years, Estonia has developed a national public warning system, EE‑ALARM, through which rapid alerts are issued to the population in the event of danger. The public warning system is under continuous development to keep pace with changing circumstances and technological possibilities. To ensure that the system functions flawlessly and that any potential shortcomings are identified in good time, regular tests are carried out.
The next public warning system test will take place on March 18, 2026. While the primary purpose is to verify the system’s reliability, it also provides an excellent opportunity for the population to reflect on how to act in a real emergency. Individuals — the recipients of public warnings — are the most crucial link in the entire alerting system, and informed behaviour is therefore of immeasurable value.
What should you do when you receive a public warning?
A public warning may reach people through several different channels: via SMS, via notifications in the Eesti app or the “Ole Valmis!” app, via ERR ticker messages, or through the siren network in larger towns and their surrounding areas.
In the coming years, the system will be supplemented by flash alerts, or cell broadcast technology, which enables alerts to be delivered using sound, vibration, and light on mobile phones — regardless of whether these settings are switched on or off by the user. As noted, the system is continuously evolving to ensure that warnings can be issued in the most effective way possible.
The message accompanying a public warning is always short and clear — it states what has happened and how to behave in the given situation. These instructions help people cope as safely and smoothly as possible. It is therefore important to read the message carefully. If the information provided appears insufficient, additional details will be available during a crisis on websites kriis.ee, olevalmis.ee, and from the state helpline 1247. It is essential to rely solely on official information sources to avoid exposure to malicious misinformation.
A siren always means only one thing: seek shelter indoors immediately!
In an emergency, every second quite literally matters, and it is therefore vital that people know how to act when danger arises. While other warning channels provide information about the nature of the threat and instructions on what to do, sirens do not convey such details.
If the state activates the sirens, it always means that you must seek shelter immediately in the nearest indoor space. Remember that the best place to shelter is usually wherever you already are. If you are inside a building, stay there. In the event of an explosion risk, move to a lower floor, into a room without windows and with reinforced walls — ideally a basement. Keep well away from windows. Bear in mind that every barrier between you and the hazard may protect you from severe injury or death.
Studies by the Rescue Services show that when at home, 68% of people would look for a safer place within their home, which is the correct action. Nearly one‑fifth, however, would choose to leave their home, thereby putting their lives at risk.
These figures indicate that while a large share of the population is reasonably familiar with the rules of conduct in an emergency, a significant number still need to be reached with this guidance. The nationwide public warning test is a good opportunity to do so, and it also encourages each person to review their own personal crisis plan. Crises should not be feared, but one must be prepared for them. This helps build confidence so that, should danger ever arise, we know how to act in a way that protects ourselves and our loved ones from the worst. Knowledge and preparedness are an essential part of our security.
In addition to the March test, the nationwide public warning system will also be tested this year on June 10 and October 14.
Diana Samalea, Public Warning advisor