The Cyprus government has issued official self-protection instructions to the public following the activation of emergency protocols and warning sirens earlier today.
According to an official announcement, the authorities may activate warning sirens in the event of a serious or widespread danger to ensure the immediate protection of the population. Citizens are urged to remain calm and strictly follow specific safety measures to minimize risk.
What to do if you hear a siren:
- Move to a basement: If your home, a neighboring building, or your current location has a basement, head there immediately ON FOOT and in an orderly manner.
- Stay indoors: If you are in a building without a basement, stay INSIDE and move away from doors, glass surfaces, and windows.
- Seek immediate shelter: If you are outdoors, move to the NEAREST INDOOR SPACE without delay.
- Follow public facility protocols: In locations such as schools, hospitals, and stadiums, staff will implement established emergency protocols. Citizens are urged NOT TO TRAVEL BY VEHICLE to these locations to collect family members, as this can obstruct emergency services.
- Limit movement: Until further notice is issued by the competent authorities, remain in underground or indoor spaces and AVOID MOVING in open areas, whether on foot or by vehicle.
The Ministry of Interior emphasized that these measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure public safety during the current volatile security situation. The government is also utilizing a new SMS alert system, which was tested earlier this week, to provide real-time updates and instructions directly to citizens’ mobile phones.
