Siren and warning signals
The state capital of Mainz currently has 35 E57 sirens and 34 Sonus high-performance electronic sirens.
The E57 sirens are classic civil defense sirens, in which an electrically driven rotor presses air through a housing with openings, known as the stator, thereby producing the characteristic siren sound.
Four different signals can be generated by varying the switch-on time of the rotor.
In 2018, all of the sirens' control units were converted to digital alarms so that they can continue to be triggered reliably in the future. Thanks to this conversion, it is possible to trigger the sirens either completely, in one of 16 groups, or individually in a targeted manner.
Siren signals and their meaning
The siren systems located in the city area are programmed to emit the "public warning" siren signal. This signal is a one-minute wailing sound (rising and falling).
The following actions should be taken when this signal is heard:
- Turn on the radio and listen for announcements
- Close doors and windows immediately as a precaution
- Switch off air conditioning and ventilation systems in buildings and vehicles (recirculation mode if applicable)
- Only contact the emergency services in urgent cases
- Help children and people in need
- Inform neighbors and acquaintances
Further official information in the event of damage can be obtained as follows:
- Mainz city administration website (opens in a new tab)
- Radio: SWR, RPR 1, Antenne Mainz, Rockland Radio
- Citizens' hotline: +49 6131 99 34 34 (only available in the event of major incidents)
Testing the siren systems in the urban area
The Mainz city administration tests its sirens annually as part of the nationwide warning day. This usually takes place on the second Thursday in September. The siren signals "warning to the population" and "all clear" are triggered.