During a warning signal or evacuation, it is paramount to remain calm and listen to the instructions of the competent authorities. Subsequently, depending on the type of danger, a safe place must be sought. It is possible to prepare for evacuation by knowing the evacuation routes in your area or by preparing evacuation luggage. This follows from the information published by the Ministry of the Interior of the Slovak Republic in the guide What to do in the event of a crisis or armed conflict.
- Evacuation requires keeping calm and following the instructions of the competent authorities.
- Warning signals are broadcast through sirens, radio or the media.
- Evacuation baggage has a specified maximum weight according to the person’s age.
- When evacuating, gas, water, electricity must be turned off and the house must be locked.
- After the evacuation, it is necessary to report the damage to the insurance company and provide assistance.
“By means of warning signals of sirens and supplemented spoken information, residents receive quick and comprehensible information about the danger,” said the Ministry of the Interior. Warning signals usually consist of a specific tone supplemented by a spoken word.
A general threat is usually signaled by a two-minute oscillating tone. The tone is usually supplemented by a report of a type of emergency or threat. This signal can also be used during a state of war, it signals an air alert.
A water hazard has its own warning style. It is a constant warning tone lasting six minutes. The end of the threat is usually signaled by a two-minute constant tone. The same signal is also heard during the siren test, usually on the second Friday of the month at 12:00 p.m..
Citizens will receive more detailed information after the announcement of the alarm through municipal or city radio stations, as well as through television and radio. It is necessary to follow the information and follow the instructions of the authorities.
“Evacuation is a measure to protect the life and health of citizens in the event of extraordinary events such as floods, windstorms, industrial accidents or others. Proper behavior in these situations can save lives and health,” the Ministry of the Interior warned. In addition to being prepared for evacuation and familiarizing yourself with the instructions of the competent authorities, it is also a good idea to inform loved ones about the situation. “Agree with your family on a plan where you will meet and how you will contact each other in the event of a mobile network outage,” advised the ministry in the handbook.
After the announcement of an organized evacuation, it is allowed to take luggage with a maximum weight of 25 kilograms for an adult, 15 kilograms for a child and five kilograms for hand luggage. You need to pack documents, money, payment cards, medicines, basic food for two to three days or personal hygiene items. According to the manual, it is also good to have a flashlight, blanket or sleeping bag, spare clothes and shoes. You can also take jewelry or other smaller valuables with you.
In case of evacuation, it is necessary to secure your home – turn off gas, water and electricity, lock doors and windows. All objects of historical or other high value must be adequately secured. In the case of floods, for example, this means taking them to the highest place possible.
There is also no need to linger and underestimate the situation after the evacuation is announced. However, you need to leave calmly and without panic. Planned routes should be used for evacuation and dangerous sections should be avoided.
Upon arrival at the designated safe place during the organized evacuation, the evacuees will be required to register with the competent authorities. They receive instructions to return home only after the end of the threat. “If possible, offer to help other evacuees,” advised the department. After the end of the danger and returning home, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the damage and make photo documentation, if necessary, contact the insurance company.
