Self-defense instructions are given to Cypriots by the Ministry of the Interior, with the aim of proper and proper preparation in case of danger from hostile action.
Her ministry points out what citizens should have in their emergency backpack, decodes the sounds of sirens and informs about available shelters.
Urban areas
How am I notified in the event of an emergency due to threat from hostile action?
- In such event, sirens will be sounded in the affected areas and instructions will be given to the citizens to take refuge in shelters/temporary places of protection.
- Civil Defense sirens are a means of immediate warning to the population in cases of serious and/or generalized danger. The aim is to inform citizens in time and to activate them, so that they can take self-protection measures.
- Civil Defense has trained and experienced personnel in the Neighborhood Watch Department, which patrols the affected areas and directs citizens.
When are the sirens activated and what should I do if they sound?
Sirens are activated exclusively by the competent Authorities, when there is an immediate or imminent danger that requires massive and quick information.
The basic siren signals are:
Start Alarm: Fluctuating sound
It means: There is a serious danger and I must take immediate protective measures. I keep my cool and get updates from official sources.
Alarm Expiry: Steady, continuous sound
It means: The immediate danger has passed. I remain vigilant and continue to be informed.
If I hear a siren:
- I stay cool and don’t panic.
- I am informed by authoritative sources, such as radio or television and the official communication channels of the competent authorities on social media. I do not spread rumors or unconfirmed information.
- I prepare to move to a safe place or shelter if instructed, and I do not move unnecessarily.
- I follow the instructions of Civil Defense and other competent authorities.
How can I locate the nearest shelter/protection area?
Civil Defense shelters offer protection from blasts, shrapnel and other hazards. The stay in the shelters is a few hours, until the danger has passed.
- I know in advance where the nearest shelter is to my home or workplace, through the SafeCY application or through the Operations Control Center of the General Administration of Civil Defense at 22 403 451 or 22 403 452.
- I move to the shelter in an orderly manner and without panic.
- I follow the instructions of those in charge and do not leave the shelter without instructions from the competent authorities.
If I need to move to a shelter, I take with me:
- Identity or basic documents,
- some money,
- Water, dry food and baby food if I have children,
- first aid supplies,
- Essential medicines or medicines that I take as part of medication, and
- Flashlight, small portable radio and batteries.
- What do I do if there are no shelters/places of protection in the area where I am?
If I am in an area where there are no shelters, I follow the self-protection measures below:
- I locate space inside my home or workplace, away from windows, doors and glass.
- I carry a portable radio, flashlight and essentials such as water, dry food, medicine and a first aid kit (see emergency backpack leaflet).
- In case of alarm, I fall on my face, covering my head with my hands
- If I am outdoors, I fall face down, covering my head with my hands preferably in a ravine, ditch or pit, if there is one nearby.
- I remain calm and follow the instructions of the competent Authorities.
Communities adjacent to British Bases and Paphos Airport:
In the cases of the Communities of Pyla, Ormidia, Xylofagos, Xylotympos, Timi, Anarita and Madria, the Civil Defense has drawn up, as a precaution, a plan for the eventual evacuation of the areas and the Community Councils and Deputy Mayors have been informed about it.
For precautionary reasons, the residents of the areas have been informed or will be informed by the Local Authorities through the whatsapp and viber applications or by text message on their mobile phone, about the points that will temporarily act as protection areas, should the need arise.
Civil Defense Force personnel will be present at the designated areas to direct citizens and assist in their safe accommodation.
