Alarms and communication

For the arrangement of emergency response centre activities, Finland has been divided into emergency response centre areas. The Emergency Response Centre Administration consists of the Emergency Response Centre Agency, based in Pori, and 15 emergency response centres (ERCs) throughout Finland. The Ministry of the Interior manages and directs the Emergency Response Centre Administration in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. The Emergency Response Centre of the Åland Islands operates under its own regional legislation.

Emergency response centres receive emergency calls and other calls and alert the help required 24 hours a day. Furthermore, emergency response centres provide information services to various authorities and act as communications centres.

The Public Authority Network (VIRVE) is an efficient, full-coverage digital radio network serving security authorities. The network enhances collaboration and communication between the various authorities in all circumstances. Although the network functions as an internal system for each authority, its sophisticated features mean it will improve the authorities' readiness for communication with each other if required.

The most important benefits offered by the Public Authority Network include speed, multi-user capability and the security provided by encryption. High serviceability requirements, both in daily operating conditions and in exceptional circumstances, have been taken into account in the design and construction of the network.

The Public Authority Network serves all the different user groups and improves the operational capabilities of the authorities. The primary users of the network include State and municipal security authorities, such as Finnish rescue, police and social welfare and health authorities, the xxxborder""" Guard, the Customs, and the Finnish Defence Forces.

Page modified: 9.6.2010