While Saanenland continues to rank among the safest regions in the Canton of Bern, maintaining that position requires ongoing investment, coordination and preparation behind the scenes.

According to the latest police crime statistics, crime levels in Saanenland have remained low and stable over the past three to five years, with only minor annual fluctuations. The figures confirm that the region remains one of the safest areas in the canton.

Behind these reassuring statistics lies a network of local initiatives designed to strengthen security for residents and visitors alike. One measure that is perhaps less widely known is the Municipality of Saanen’s investment in additional policing services beyond those normally provided by the Canton of Bern. The municipality finances resources equivalent to three full-time police positions, helping to increase police visibility and maintain a strong local presence throughout the region.

The municipality also works with external security companies whose patrols provide additional surveillance and support, particularly during the night. Together with the cantonal police, tourism organisations, private schools, hoteliers and local businesses, these partners form part of a broader security network that regularly assesses emerging challenges and adapts to changing circumstances.

A key element of this collaboration is the “Round Table Security”, where representatives from dif-ferent sectors meet to discuss current security issues and identify areas where action may be re-quired. The municipality's security concept is reviewed on an ongoing basis and adjusted when necessary.

Preparedness also extends beyond everyday policing. In the event of a major incident, Saanen can call upon its Regional Command Organisation (RFO), a team of around 20 specialists trained to coordinate responses to larger emergencies and crises. The organisation works alongside emergen-cy services such as the fire brigade and civil protection authorities and regularly carries out exercis-es to ensure it can respond quickly and effectively when needed.

The Security Department is overseen politically by Municipal Councillor David Schmid and opera-tionally by Mirjam Oertle, Head of Security and Health. Together with their teams and partner or-ganisations, they work to ensure that Saanenland remains prepared for both everyday challenges and exceptional events.

The Cantonal Police also emphasise the importance of prevention. In addition to crime prevention campaigns and advice on burglary protection, officers provide guidance on topics such as internet crime, theft prevention, personal safety and road safety. Residents can also report minor thefts, property damage, or losses online at any time via the Suisse ePolice platform.

While security often attracts attention only when something goes wrong, the municipality's message is that maintaining a safe environment requires continuous effort, cooperation and planning – even in one of the safest regions in the canton.

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