Authorities consider means to improve safety at swimming areas
During the summer, there have been significantly more drownings and serious near misses than usual at public swimming areas. The Ministry of the Interior, the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes), the National Police Board of Finland and the Finnish Swimming Teaching and Lifesaving Federation met on 30 July to discuss safety at swimming areas.
Guide on the activation and use of civil defence shelters sent out for comments
The Ministry of the Interior has sent out for comments a draft guide intended to support the planning of the activation and use of civil defence shelters and to harmonise the preparation of related plans. The deadline for submitting comments is 11.8. 2025.
Ministry of the Interior issues new decree on smoke alarms
The Ministry of the Interior has issued a new decree on smoke alarms. The decree lays down provisions on the minimum number of smoke alarms, as is the case at present. In addition, the decree specifies how smoke alarms must be placed. The aim is to clarify the regulation on smoke alarms and to make it easier to comply with the regulation. The decree was drafted to correspond to the amendments made to the Rescue Act. It will enter into force on 1 January 2026.
Government proposes extension for introducing real time text in emergency calls
The Government proposes that the transitional period for introducing real time text in emergency calls be extended. It must be possible to submit an emergency call using real time text by 28 June 2027.
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Heatwave Brings Tasks for Emergency Medical Services and Rescue Units
Helsinki is enjoying warm weather this week. However, the heatwave also brings challenges that may increase the number of assignments for the rescue services – including both rescue units and ambulances.
Emergency medical care and police organise joint emergency first aid training
In practice, authorities cooperate on assignments almost daily, having practised working together during events such as joint training sessions.
Hanko’s beaches cleared of grease pellets
The collection of grease pellets discovered in Hanko at the end of January has been completed. All known occurrences on the mainland and the surrounding islands have been inspected and cleaned.
New rescue station in Kontula features gym for residents of Helsinki
Helsinki rescue and emergency medical service units are now able to deliver help faster thanks to the operation of the new Kontula Rescue Station.
Helsinki Rescue Department to set up Rescue Task Force
The Helsinki City Rescue Department is developing rescue operations proactively to be able to meet the demands of the changing operating environment in the Helsinki metropolitan area. The Helsinki City Rescue Department is introducing Rescue Task Force (RTF) activities to respond to particularly demanding tasks.
Kontula Rescue Station Open House on February 11
Welcome to celebrate our new and modern rescue station on February 11th from 4-8 pm!
Increases to fees charged by Helsinki City Rescue Department
Due to the wellbeing services county reform, all wellbeing services counties need to review their income from fees.
Ban on the use of fireworks in the City of Helsinki area
The use of fireworks is banned in Helsinki between New Year's Eve and Day at 18.00-02.00 in the certain areas.
EU supports the development project of Uusimaa rescue services with 1,66 million euros
The Ministry of the Interior has granted EU funding from the Internal Security Fund (ISF) to the rescue services of Eastern Uusimaa, Central Uusimaa, Western Uusimaa and the City of Helsinki for a development project of urban search and rescue (USAR).
Stadin brankkari 2024: The best thing about this job is the community
Firefighter Aki Pollari, 57, has been awarded the 2024 Stadin brankkari award. His ongoing career at the Rescue Department has lasted over 30 years.
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