Gas, documents and shelter: recommendations in case of a Russian missile strike

Explosions during missile attacks can lead to the destruction of buildings, and your actions in this situation can save lives.

Specialists from the Zhytomyr region explained what to do if your building is losing stability or has already collapsed. Oksana Kovalchuk, Head of the Media Relations Sector of the State Emergency Service in the Zhytomyr region, emphasized that if you feel a powerful explosion or the walls are deforming, you should urgently leave the premises. During the evacuation, it is forbidden to use the elevator or stand near the windows. It is better to take important documents and money with you, warn others about the threat, and leave without panic.

If you cannot leave the premises, you need to find the safest place – a doorway in the supporting wall, the space between the beams, or take shelter under a sturdy table. Stay away from windows and balconies, and if possible, turn off the water, gas, and electricity.

In the event of a collapse, you should immediately call rescuers. If you have a phone, you can call or attract attention by shouting or knocking on pipes and batteries. If there is no response, experts recommend carefully freeing the limbs, assessing the situation, and removing the rubble without touching the supporting structures. If you doubt your abilities, it is better to endure and continue calling for help.

After being freed from the rubble, you should examine yourself for injuries, if necessary, stop the bleeding, fix the injured limbs, and protect yourself from hypothermia.

“It is important always to have charged mobile phones with you, as this will allow you to report your location and call emergency services,” said Alla Vashchenko, spokeswoman for the National Police of Zhytomyr Region.

She also recommends preparing an emergency suitcase, keeping copies of documents in different places, and not ignoring air-raid sirens; immediately descending to a safe shelter.