Authorities’ instructions for when you see a drone

The authorities and the state leadership are monitoring changes in the security situation, assessing future risks and ensuring that our society continues to function in all circumstances. Finland is not currently facing a military threat. 

This press release responds to questions raised by the recent incident. In any incident, you will feel safer and more confident when you know what to do. 

All unusual drone sightings are always investigated

The police and other authorities give regular updates on changes in the security situation and on any incidents or emergencies. The police investigate all unusual drone sightings reported to them. These sightings usually involve drones flying near critical infrastructure or in areas where aviation is prohibited or restricted. Most reports turn out to be linked to hobby flying or normal air traffic.

Authorities use emergency warnings and warning sirens

The competent authorities are responsible for warning the public. The authorities use many channels to publish the warnings. If there is an imminent danger, an emergency warning will be issued and/or a public warning siren sounded. Emergency warnings are broadcast on the radio and sent through the 112 Suomi app and, if necessary, shown on television. The emergency warning is also shown on teletext page 112.

Public warning sirens may be used to warn people of an imminent danger. The public warning signal is a rising and falling sound that lasts for one minute, or a warning issued using loudspeakers. When you hear the public warning signal, go indoors.

The all-clear signal is a continuous sound that lasts for one minute. It means that the threat or danger has passed.

The Ministry of the Interior has launched a project to develop a new feature for the Emergency Response Centre Agency’s 112 Suomi app to warn the public of airborne threats.

How to seek shelter indoors

Go indoors if you receive an emergency warning of a potentially dangerous drone, or you see or hear a drone that moves strangely or otherwise causes concern (e.g. flies in a prohibited area or very low). Once inside, stay in the middle of the building and keep away from windows. 

If you cannot get inside, find a place that is as safe as possible.

Call the emergency number if you need to report a sighting

The 112 Suomi app sends you official emergency warnings based on your location. Make sure the app has permission to access your location and send notifications so you can use all its features. You can download the 112 Suomi app from the App Gallery, Google Play or App Store.

Call the emergency number 112 when

• you see a drone in a no-fly zone
• you see a drone that flies near an important site, such as: 
  • power plant 
  • airport 
  • port 
  • water treatment plant 
  • large telecommunications or official building
• you find a drone that has fallen on the ground. 

Answer the emergency response centre operator's questions and follow the instructions. 

Do not call 112 with general questions about the security situation. 

What to do if you find a fallen drone or see a flying drone

If you find a suspicious drone or drone parts on the ground, move away to a safe distance and call the emergency number 112. Answer the emergency response centre operator's questions and follow the instructions. Keep others away from the object. Do not share your location or a photograph of the drone on social media.

If you see a drone near critical infrastructure or in no-fly zones, assess the situation and act with caution. If needed, call 112 and report what you have seen. Answer the emergency response centre operator's questions and follow the instructions. Make sure you stay safe and, if necessary, go to the nearest indoor space away from doors and windows. Follow further updates from the authorities.

Knowledge and skills are an important part of preparedness. You will feel safer and more confident when you know what to do in different situations.