Frequency concept in the field of rescue
 
 

Emergency radio frequencies
 

Representatives from all the rescue services and helicopter companies, together with the Federal Office of Communications, OFCOM, have agreed on the following emergency radio frequency concept for use in the field of rescue:

 
1. K-channel
The K-channel (coordination channel) serves as an interdisciplinary channel for communication between the various rescue organisations at the scene of the accident.
 
2. S-channel
Securo 1 and 2 are reserved for use by the rescue services and hospitals.
 
3. H-channel
The H1 and H2 channels are the official channels for the helicopter operators.
 
4. R-channel
The rescue channel is reserved for use by the mountain rescue services (SAC) and the air-rescue services (Rega).
 

5. E-channel 161.300 MHz

The emergency channel is available for use by anyone (the public at large, governmental offices and authorities) throughout Switzerland for the sole purpose of raising the alarm in an emergency, provided that there is no telephone or mobile phone within a reasonable distance. This channel can be used to directly request assistance. The emergency channel is monitored countrywide by Rega’s Operations Centre.


An automatic connection check can be carried out on this frequency by means of the 5-tone calling signal, 2 13 01 (ZVEI-1/2). The 5-tone calling signal, 2 14 14 (ZVEI-1/2), can be used to contact the Rega Operations Centre direct to request emergency assistance.
 
From 2012 REGA will be gradually equipping its radio network with a 123.0 Hz tone squelch in order to cancel out interference. Alarm calls to the REGA Operations Centre will still remain possible with the selective call number and without the tone squelch. When buying a new emergency radio set, please check that it is fitted with a 123.0 Hz tone squelch.