Modernization of emergency call access
People with hearing impairments should now be able to contact the emergency services of the police, fire department and ambulance service in writing using the text function on their smartphone. The bill also provides for the short number 142 for victim assistance to be enshrined in an ordinance. This will provide the necessary clarity for implementation. The Federal Council submitted a corresponding revision of the legal basis for consultation on June 20, 2025.
The Federal Council wants to modernize access to emergency services for the population and adapt it to technological developments. To this end, three ordinances are being amended: Ordinance on Telecommunications Services FDV, Ordinance on Telecommunications Installations FAV and the Ordinance on Addressing Elements in the Telecommunications Sector AEFV.
Real-time text as an additional contact option
The public should also be able to reach the emergency services via real-time text (see box). This will particularly benefit people with a hearing impairment, as it will make it easier for them to access the emergency services. The ability to contact people via text can also be crucial for rapid assistance in situations where it is not possible to speak (e.g. in the event of noise, an injury or a dangerous situation). The revised FDV and FAV define new requirements for end devices (smartphones), which must include the text function. Furthermore, the introduction of this function requires the complete digitalization of telecommunications networks so that the text can be transmitted to the emergency services. In order to be able to receive the text, the alarm centers must procure the necessary equipment and train their personnel.
Short number for victim support
A central element of the present revision project is the introduction of a short number (142) for victim assistance. New requirements are being set which telecommunications service providers and terminal equipment manufacturers must meet. The amendment also affects the emergency services and help and advice centers, as they have to answer calls and provide the necessary services.
The short number 142 has already been provisionally allocated to the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Social Affairs so that they can begin the time-consuming commissioning process in collaboration with Swisscom and the cantons. Once the new provisions come into force, this short number will belong to the new category of assistance and advice services, which, like emergency services, will be free of charge. The consultation period will last until October 14, 2025.
What is real-time text?
Real-time text is a technology that makes it possible to transmit text simultaneously during a call. Messages are displayed character by character as they are typed, making communication more immediate than with conventional text messages.
