Nicosia, Cyprus. Civil defence on Monday reminded the public of procedures for finding and using evacuation shelters after the British Akrotiri air force base was hit by a drone shortly after midnight.
Alerts and public information
Civil defence said that due to an unstable and fluid situation, the public is being proactively informed that if circumstances require, sirens will sound in affected areas and announcements will be made through channels including radio and television directing people to the nearest shelter.
How to locate shelters
Shelters can be located through the civil defence ‘SafeCY’ mobile application. Alternatively, the public can telephone civil defence at 22 403451 or 22 403452.
Guidance if no shelter is nearby
If there is no shelter nearby, civil defence urged the public to remain in a safe place inside their home or business, such as underground car parks and areas with solid walls, noting that staying indoors is preferable to staying outdoors.
Civil defence said that in such an emergency, trained neighbourhood watchers will be positioned to direct and assist those who require assistance.
People in locations with no nearby shelters were urged to find spaces in their homes away from windows, doors, and glass, and to take shelter.
Items to have and protective actions
Civil defence urged people to have a portable radio, a torch, and first aid supplies, including water, dry food, and a first aid kit.
In an emergency, people were urged to stay face-down and cover their heads with their hands. Those outdoors with no time to seek shelter were urged to lie on the ground, preferably in a pit or a ditch.
Civil defence urged the public to remain calm and follow instructions issued by the authorities.
Preparation for shelter use
People who may use civil defence shelters were urged to locate their nearest shelter in advance and prepare an emergency kit with basic items including water, dry food, first aid supplies, a torch, batteries, a radio, medication, important documents, cash, and baby food if they have babies.
Have you identified your nearest shelter and prepared an emergency kit in advance?