Hesa Fredrik is named after a columnist in Dagens Nyheter, Oscar Fredrik Rydqvist, who wrote under the pen name "Hesa Fredrik" (Hoarse Fredrik). When the typhons were tested for the first time in 1931 he thought they sounded just as hoarse as he himself was. The expression "Hesa Fredrik" then spread quickly.
In a way. Hesa Fredrik (the outdoor warning system) is one part of the VMA system hich also consists of several different measures such as:
sending messages to mobile phones in the affected area,
read out messages on Sveriges Radio and commercial radio channels,
text banners on TV channels
and distribution via apps such as SOS Alarm's 112 app, Krisinformation.se and Sveriges Radio's Play app.
How VMA is distributed – signals, sound and text messages
Approximately 50 per cent of the Swedish population live within audible distance of a transmitter so that they can hear the signal if they are outdoors.
There are signals for:
VMA - A warning that something has happened or that a danger exists that you need to be made aware of immediately.
All clear - The danger that was previously warned about has now been averted.
Air raid warning - If the Swedish Armed Forces detect a threatening air attack, the air raid warning signal is used to warn the public.
Emergency preparedness alarm - Used if the government wants to announce that there is an immediate risk of war, or that the country is at war.
Yes. The message in the text message is the same as the one read out on the radio and shown on TV. You do not need to register anywhere to receive these text messages.
Various conditions may cause the SMS not to reach you. For example, it could be that your mobile operator does not have coverage in the area or that you are connected to a mobile mast outside the area.
When you hear the signal you should:
Close all doors, windows and if possible ventilation.
Listen to Sveriges Radio P4 for more information.
You can also call the information number 113 13 for more information.
If you hear the signal during a quarterly test, you do not need to do anything.
When and how the VMA signal is tested
If you usually hear the signal but did not hear it during the test that takes place every four months, you should contact your municipal rescue services. They are responsible for operating, maintaining and testing the system. Note that this is an outdoor warning system. You may not hear the signal if you are indoors.
Location and use of the outdoor warning system
The outdoor warning system - Hesa Fredrik - is used very rarely and only in the event of imminent danger. During 2021-2024 for example Hesa Fredrik was not used a single time. However the other channels such as SMS, messages on radio and TV, and apps were used on average 33 times per year.
