We all want to feel safe and hope that disasters will never affect us. Lithuania is a particularly safe country, but sometimes events are beyond our control. So, what should you do if disaster strikes?

Emergency Number: 112

112 is the emergency number that operates across the European Union and beyond. It's used to report emergencies or sudden threats, connecting you with the police, fire and rescue services, and emergency medical services.

In Lithuania, environmental protection officers are also reached via 112. Contact them in cases such as road accidents involving wild animals, severe environmental violations, chemical spills, or explosions.

Calls to 112 are free, even without a SIM card. If you’re unable to speak due to a disability or other reasons, you can send a text message including your name, address, and a brief description of the incident. Messages should be written in Lithuanian. If Lithuanian isn't your first language, consider saving a message template on your phone for emergencies. More information is available here.

Emergency Alerts

If you live in Lithuania, you've likely received emergency alerts on your phone. These can notify you of severe weather (storms, heatwaves), large fires that cause air pollution, and similar events. When you receive an alert, stay calm, and turn on the radio or TV to get further instructions.

In the event of a major disaster (e.g., a nuclear accident or military threat), warnings will be issued not just through phone alerts and broadcasts on radio and TV, but also via sirens. When this happens, turn on your radio or TV and follow the instructions carefully.

If advised to stay indoors, seal windows and doors, draw curtains, cover ventilation openings, and ensure the safety of pets. Stay in a room without windows, if possible. If you're directed to a shelter, bring essential items such as medications, personal documents, hygiene supplies, food, and waterproof clothing.

How to Subscribe to Warning Messages?

The Residents' Warning and Information System (GWIS) operates on the networks of all three mobile operators (Bitė, Telia, Tele2) (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G). Alerts can be received on phones with the cellular broadcasting function enabled. To activate this function:

1. Enable the service (cellular broadcasting, network notifications)
2. Select the language (channels 578, 525, 605)
3. Enter the topic title (Attention, Attention, Vnimanije)
4. Choose the language – "ALL"

For phones with the EU – Alert function (channel 4371):

• √ CellBroadcast (cellular broadcasting, network transmissions, ...)
• √ Emergency alert (show extreme threats, Alert level 2 (iPhone), ...)

Collective Protection Structures (KAS)

Collective protection structures (known as Kolektyvinės apsaugos statiniai - KAS) are designed to provide temporary refuge from harmful environmental effects or to protect residents during evacuations in emergencies or wartime. Each municipality in Lithuania has designated buildings—often schools, kindergartens, or sports centers—that serve this purpose. It’s essential to know where your nearest KAS is, so you’re prepared if disaster strikes. A list of KAS locations is available here.

As the saying goes, "Better safe than sorry." To be prepared for any situation, it's wise to have a "go-bag" ready at home. This should include important documents, photos of loved ones, food, a first aid kit, hygiene products, clothing, and other essentials. A complete list of recommended items and actions is available here.

Short-Term Shelters

These shelters provide brief protection (up to a few hours) during air raids or in the event of direct or indirect shelling during military aggression. Suitable shelters include underground parking garages, basements, tunnels, and similar structures.

Five-Step Safety Plan

Following these steps can help ensure your and your loved ones' safety in an emergency:

1. Make sure you’re receiving emergency alerts on your phone
2. Know the location of your nearest shelter
3. Consider which family members will be able to assist you in an emergency
4. Identify people you can cooperate with for safety
5. Keep an emergency stockpile of essential items

Think ahead about how to care for family members with disabilities. Don’t abandon your pets. Remember, every individual should be prepared to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours until help arrives.