Crans-Montana fire: support from the National Civil Protection Service
The system is ready to assist Italians and, if needed, injured individuals of other nationalities
A severe fire broke out in a nightclub in Crans-Montana, located in the Canton of Valais, Switzerland, during New Year's Eve celebrations. This tragic incident has resulted in fatalities and numerous injuries, many of which are critical. In response to this disaster, the Swiss Confederation has requested support from the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Our country's civil protection system has been activated to provide timely assistance to the affected individuals, both Italian citizens and foreign nationals, and to ensure effective coordination of activities with Swiss authorities.
Fabio Ciciliano, the Head of Department, has ordered the activation of a Crisis Unit at the Department's headquarters, effective as of yesterday. This unit aims to facilitate inter-institutional coordination and oversee the implementation of planned support measures. At present, 13 injured Italians require medical evacuations to ensure they receive adequate care in Italy.
The CROSS - Remote Centre for Health Rescue Operations has been activated to facilitate the transfer of injured individuals to Italy. The first three patients arrived at Niguarda Hospital in Milan yesterday, January 1. Additionally, four more individuals are scheduled to be transferred to the same hospital today. Medical transports will continue in the coming days, following a schedule shared with the Swiss health authorities. This plan is based on the principles of continuity of care and, when possible, proximity to the patients' areas of residence.
An assessment and coordination team from the Civil Protection Department, a technical support team from the Piedmont Region, a healthcare team from the Lombardy Region specializing in the management of severely burned patients—tasked with assessing patients’ health and transportability—and a team of psychologists dedicated to supporting the families of the injured are already operational on-site.
A helpline established by the Cantonal police can be reached at +41848112117 and is also accessible from Italy.
Last updated on January 2, 2026, at 3 PM