TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of the Interior on Monday issued new air raid shelter protocols for various settings.
The MOI said the air raid shelter guidelines are based on international best practices and aim to strengthen the public’s ability to react quickly under extreme circumstances, per CNA. They cover three core aspects: shelter selection, protective postures, and recommended actions.
Underground spaces are preferable to above-ground, and indoor locations are better than outdoor ones. While indoors, doors, windows, and outer walls should be avoided.
People should ideally shelter behind at least two walls from the source of an explosion. They should also avoid proximity to breakable items, gas cylinders, and other flammable or potentially explosive materials.
If unable to reach shelter in time, individuals should lie flat, protect their head, and face away from the blast to minimize harm from shockwaves and debris. If an explosion has not yet occurred, they should remain flat and still until the danger has passed before moving to a safer location.
When an air raid siren sounds, the public should first try to enter a basement or designated air raid shelter. If indoors but unable to reach a shelter, they should stay away from windows and exterior walls, protect their head, and avoid the top floor.
If outdoors, they should quickly enter the nearest building, underpass, or tunnel and assume a protective posture. If driving or on public transportation, they should stop immediately and seek a nearby shelter.
If unable to leave the vehicle, they should lower their bodies below the window line and protect their heads.
At a Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience Committee meeting on June 26 at the Presidential Office, Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) said nationwide civil defense drills would begin on July 15 across Taiwan and outlying islands.
The full guidelines are available for download online.
