Support and Assistance
After a traumatic event, it is normal to feel shock, anxiety, or distress. Professionals are available to listen — both immediately and in the long term.
LAVI Victim Support Center (Valais)
Victim Support Center (LAVI)
The LAVI Center provides free support for victims and their families:
- Counseling and psychological support
- Help with administrative and legal procedures
- Possible compensation (medical costs, damages, moral harm)
Phone: 027 606 30 30
Email: lavi@admin.vs.ch
Free and confidential service — no deadline to reach out.
Local psychological support unit
A support unit is maintained for affected individuals:
Phone: 076 834 97 05
Source: Canton of Valais, January 6, 2026.
Helplines (24/7)
La Main Tendue: 143
Anonymous, free listening service, 24 hours a day.
| Service | Number | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| La Main Tendue | 143 | General public, anonymous |
| Pro Juventute | 147 | Children and youth (up to 25) |
On site in Crans-Montana
Family Assistance Center
Le Régent Congress Center
Route des Mélèzes 28, 3963 Crans-Montana
Psychologists and counselors available on site.
Who can benefit from support
- Victims' families — awaiting identification or grieving
- Witnesses and survivors — people present during the fire
- First responders — firefighters, paramedics, police
- Local residents — affected local community
- Extended circle — friends and family of those directly affected
Warning signs
Seek help if you or someone you know experiences:
- Persistent sleep difficulties
- Repeated flashbacks or nightmares
- Intense anxiety or panic attacks
- Unusual isolation
- Increased alcohol or medication use
- Dark thoughts
Additional resources
- Family doctor — Can refer to a specialist
- Valais Red Cross — Psychosocial support
- Caritas Valais — Social support
For children and teenagers
Children and teenagers may react differently to trauma. Watch for behavioral changes.
Pro Juventute: 147 — Dedicated youth line, free and anonymous.
Back to school (January 5-6)
Crisis protocol activated
Counseling units with psychologists are deployed in affected schools.
Canton of Vaud
- 70 psychologists deployed across the canton
- 20 schools requested support
- Gymnase de Chamblandes (Pully) — hardest hit school, several students deceased, 15 psychologists on site
- Tests suspended, dedicated spaces for discussion
Canton of Valais
- Psychological support in all classrooms
- "Factual, clear and empathetic" message delivered by each teacher
- Content adapted to students' age
Other French-speaking cantons
- Geneva, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, Jura: Support measures active
On Friday, January 9, schools in Haut-Plateau will be closed in the afternoon for the national day of mourning.
Source: RTS, State Councillor Frédéric Borloz, January 6, 2026.