“Air raid alert in Lithuania was declared for the first time during the entire restored independence period, so we acted in such a situation for the first time. The shelter network was created taking into account the structural suitability of buildings and the possibility to prepare shelters within the set time. Until the Government clarifies the procedure, the requirement to open shelters within 12 hours of the alert remains in force. However, it is obvious that in case of an air raid alert, people need protection immediately, so we are looking for solutions to ensure quick access to shelters,” says Adomas Bužinskas, Director of Vilnius City Municipality Administration.
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In order to unify the actions and expectations of city residents in the event of an air raid alert and to answer the most frequently asked questions by residents, the municipality has already prepared recommendations for residents, apartment building managers, educational institutions, and event organizers.
The recommendations can be found on the civil protection page at vilnius.lt or in the KOVAS app.
Planned funding
Almost 72% of the shelter area in Vilnius is in apartment buildings – here is the largest nominal capacity, but at the same time, the most questions arise about access, responsibility, and clearance.
According to the recommendations prepared by Vilnius Municipality for apartment building administrators, it is suggested to have a pre-determined and known to residents algorithm for access to the shelter or other safe room, and to appoint several responsible persons.
If there is a shelter in the building, essential information about access to it and the nearest alternative shelter must be provided in a visible place, e.g., near the building or in the stairwell. The information board must indicate how long it takes to open the shelter and provide necessary contacts.
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“Most shelters today are used as storage rooms, garages, or other auxiliary premises, so reasonable questions arise about how to ensure access to them during an emergency. Although there is no unified state-established procedure, each facility must have a clear action plan. Access to the shelter cannot depend on one person or one key, so it is important to provide backup unlocking solutions. We understand that this requires investments, so we plan to allocate additional funding to help residents,” says A. Bužinskas.
Vilnius City Municipality plans to announce a shelter support program this year, with funds that can be used to provide remote unlocking options. Such support can be used for premises included in the official shelter list. Support will also be allocated for installing window protection measures in educational institutions where there are no shelters.
Priority in educational institutions – ensuring children’s safety
For residents unable to access shelters located in educational institutions, Vilnius City Municipality emphasizes that during the working hours of these institutions, the most important thing is to ensure the safety of children and staff.
“During the educational process, persons from outside can be admitted to shelters in schools or kindergartens only if there is enough free space and a separate designated area. If such possibilities do not exist, residents must be directed to the nearest alternative shelter,” says A. Bužinskas.
The director of the administration adds that outside working hours, residents will be able to access such shelters if they have a verified algorithm and clear ways to open the premises: whether there is on-duty staff, security, or the possibility to open remotely. Exercises are planned to be organized for this purpose.
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