Latest news

Further development of 112 Suomi app to draw on lessons from Ukraine

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 of airborne threats. The project will be carried out with EU funding, and other EU Member States can also benefit from the results of Finland’s development work.
Press release Ministry of the Interior Rescue services, 13.2.2026 13:35
Finnish and Ukrainian flags.

Ministry of the Interior channels donations from different sectors to Ukraine

As part of the European Union, Finland bears its share of responsibility for the impacts of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine. Public authorities alone cannot respond to the extensive need for aid; instead, assistance must be provided through broader cooperation. The Ministry of the Interior coordinates the provision of civilian material assistance to Ukraine through the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism. 
News item Ministry of the Interior Rescue services, 3.2.2026 14:36

New guides provide advice on planning and maintenance of civil defence shelters

The Ministry of the Interior has published three new guides containing practical instructions on how to use and maintain civil defence shelters and on how to draw up emergency plans. The guides are intended, for example, to support building owners (such as housing companies) and other building operators.
Press release Ministry of the Interior Rescue services, 21.1.2026 13:30
Materials on a warehouse. Some material on the forklift truck.

Finland delivers assistance from EU strategic stockpile to Ukraine

Finland has sent material assistance to Ukraine from the EU-funded rescEU strategic stockpile for the third time. The deployment from Finland included supplies to respond to chemical, biological and radiological threats, as well as medical items.
Press release Ministry of the Interior Rescue services, 9.1.2026 11:49

Latest news from Rescue Departmens

Row of helmets for rescuers.

Sanna Aivio appointed Principal of Helsinki Rescue School

At its meeting on 18 June 2024, the Helsinki Social Services, Health Care and Rescue Services Committee appointed Sanna Aivio, Master of Social Services and Health Care, as Principal of the Helsinki Rescue School.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 19.6.2024 13:50
Firefighters in a burnt forest.

Summer delicacies safely from the grill

As summer begins, barbecuing and the use of fire are always a topic of much discussion. Where are you allowed to barbecue, what does ‘open fire’ mean exactly, and what about wildfire warnings?
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 5.6.2024 12:56
A woman and a man in front of a fire unit.

Rescue Department issues award to two persons who rescued a man from icy water

On Good Friday 29 March at around 11 am Jan Strandholm and Johanna Suhonen were walking along a path in the northern part of Kulosaari when they spotted a person in a hole in the ice off the shore. They could not hear any calls for help.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 1.5.2024 6:34
Four men walking in a civil defence shelter

Helsinki to invest millions in repairing civil defence shelters

Renovation of Niemenmäki civil defence shelter completed in March, more shelters to be renovated.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 18.4.2024 14:58
Rescuers wearing protective overalls

Rescue Department receiving over 400 000 euros EU funding for CBRNE capabilities

The Ministry of the Interior has granted EU funding from the Internal Security Fund (ISF) to the Helsinki City Rescue Department for equipment acquisitions to strengthen the department’s preparedness for demanding CBRNE incidents involving chemical substances, biological pathogens, radioactive substances, nuclear weapons or explosives.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 28.3.2024 9:44
Firefighter paramedics Suvi and Saku in the equipment hall

Surprise and community spirit are the best thing about being a rescuer

Saku Kaipainen and Suvi Johansson have extensive experience: both have worked for the Helsinki City Rescue Department as firefighters and paramedics, Saku for almost 25 years and Suvi for approximately seven years.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 22.3.2024 12:59

Using the Emergency Number Correctly

The 112 day is observed every year on 11 February. The purpose of this day is to heighten public awareness about safety-related issues. This year’s focus was on the correct use of the emergency number, with a particular emphasis on educating children and young people.
Press release Länsi-Uusimaa Rescue services, 20.2.2024 17:37
A scenery from southern Helsinki. The tower of Erottaja rescue station is located in front of the picture.

Have a safe 112 day!

On 11 February, we celebrate 112 Day, a day dedicated to the emergency number 112. The purpose of 112 Day is to raise people’s awareness of what everyday safety is and how it can be promoted. In 2024, the theme of 112 Day is ‘How to use the emergency number correctly’.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 9.2.2024 12:00
A fire truck in front of the rescue station in winter

Can a fire engine or ambulance get to you in an emergency?

Keeping the emergency access roads clear of snow is an important part of the property’s responsibilities and safety.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 19.1.2024 11:22
A firefighter extinguishes a car fire.

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.
Press release Helsinki Rescue services, 27.12.2023 8:52