Alerts and sirens
The four LU-Alert levels
- 1. YellowBe aware
- 2. OrangeBe careful
- 3. RedUtmost vigilance
- 4. PurpleImmediate action
The four siren signals
| Signal | Pattern | Duration | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly test | Continuous tone | 60 seconds | No action needed during the test. |
| Warning signal | Continuous tone | 120 seconds | Get to safety. Follow official channels and the radio. |
| Nationwide alarm | Rising and falling tone | 60 seconds | Shelter quickly in a sturdy building. Close doors and windows. |
| End of alarm | Rising and falling tone with pauses | 60 seconds | The danger is over. |
Sirens are tested on the first Monday of the month, noon. You do not need to act during the test.
Stopped
Older documents say
The infocrise nuclear brochure (2014 text, listed as 2021) describes different signals: warbling with two 12 s pauses = nuclear alarm; 1 min continuous = all clear. Current LU-Alert signals above take precedence.
How you receive warnings
- Cell broadcast. An alert sounds on compatible phones connected to a Luxembourg mast in the affected area, even when set to silent. It warns of serious or imminent danger. Your phone must be on, out of flight mode and have a signal. Cellars and underground car parks may block reception.
- Location-based SMS. A text sent to phones in the affected area, regardless of operator, for confirmed or serious danger.
- LU-Alert app. Shows all warnings, including minor alerts such as food safety notices sent only through the app.
- Sirens. The four signals above, tested every month.
- Websites and media. The LU-Alert, infocrise and meteolux sites, radio, television and official social media accounts.
- During a Loss of power in your street or part of town, usually for a few hours.Loss of power in your street or part of town, usually for a few hours.Power cuts and blackouts. Listen to Status: Verified on a battery or car radio. Check LU-Alert while phone networks are working.
Numbers to know
- Emergency (fire, rescue, ambulance)
- Status: Verified
- Police
- Status: Verified
- Crisis freephone, only when activated
- Status: Verified
Never call the emergency numbers to test them.