Disasters in Switzerland

A disaster is an event that causes such extensive damage that the normal resources available locally are temporarily insufficient. In Switzerland, possible hazards include floods, landslides, avalanches, storms, earthquakes, forest fires, major accidents and prolonged interruptions to supplies. Which hazards matter most depends greatly on the location. A valley, a city, an area beside a body of water and a mountain community face different risks. Local hazard maps, signs and instructions take these differences into account. Swiss civil protection is a coordinated system. Its partners include the police, fire services, healthcare services, technical services and civil protection service. Command organisations coordinate these resources when many tasks need to be handled at once. When a hazard is imminent, authorities communicate through alert channels, sirens and situation reports. A general alarm means that official information and instructions on what to do should be followed. Depending on the event, it may be safer to go indoors, leave an area or avoid certain routes. In the first phase, emergency services rescue people, secure dangerous areas and keep essential services running. This is followed by care, temporary accommodation, restoration of supplies and clean-up work. Returning to normal life can take much longer than the visible emergency response. Preparing at home eases the burden on emergency services if electricity, water, transport, shopping or communication are disrupted. Preparation can include suitable supplies, lighting, necessary medication, hygiene items, a battery-powered radio and a plan for family members and animals. Preparation has clear limits. Supplies do not protect against a building at risk of collapse, and personal rescue attempts must not put anyone else in danger. Follow cordons, evacuation orders and instructions from incident commanders. The first steps are to learn about local hazards, make a household plan and keep emergency equipment ready. Assigning responsibilities in advance and practising the plan occasionally can help people act more quickly under stress.