Civil Defence to re-evaluate shelters across Cyprus

Authorities in Cyprus are reinspecting bomb shelters across the island and reviewing emergency systems, Civil Defence confirmed on Thursday.

Civil Defence spokesperson Panayiotis Liasidis told CNA that inspections will be carried out in collaboration with other competent services to re-evaluate and reinspect shelters. This comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following the US-Israel war on Iran.

“Inspectors evaluated all shelters last June and documented their findings. Recently, officials issued instructions to reassess the shelters’ condition to facilitate improvements,” he said.

Addressing concerns about shelter capacity, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou acknowledged on Wednesday that Cyprus’ roughly 2,500 shelters can accommodate less than half the population.

Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, he said this was not unusual internationally.

“Only two countries worldwide can fully accommodate their entire population in shelters, Israel and Switzerland,” he said. “All other states rely on civil defence protocols similar to those announced on Wednesday.”

Liasidis urged the public to locate their nearest shelter in advance using the SafeCY application or by contacting the Civil Defence operations control centre at +357 22 403 451 or +357 22 403 452.

The public is advised to prepare an emergency backpack containing essentials such as water, long-lasting food, personal hygiene items, a dust mask, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, a portable charger, a battery-powered radio, multi-tool, whistle, medicines, important documents, cash, a few clothes and baby food if needed.

In the event of an alarm, authorities say residents should remain calm and follow official instructions.

Those indoors without access to a basement should stay inside, away from doors, glass, and windows, while people outdoors are advised to enter the nearest building immediately.

Schools, hospitals, and stadiums will implement existing emergency protocols, and the public is urged not to travel unnecessarily to these locations, either on foot or by vehicle.

Authorities recommend remaining in underground or indoor spaces until further instructions are issued.

Civil Defence director Maria Pappa told the programme Mesimeri kai Kati that shelters are designed for short-term use rather than long-term accommodation.

Authorities are also identifying additional spaces, particularly in communities with limited infrastructure.

Community leaders have been asked to propose basements that could serve as shelters, with the community of Akki already suggesting three suitable sites.

Pappa stressed that shelters are not the only form of protection, adding that instructions and alternative options have been issued for those unable to access existing shelters.

Many shelters are located on private property and may remain locked outside emergencies, but owners are obliged to open them during alarms.

Civil Defence has launched on-site inspections to ensure shelters are functional and owners are aware of their responsibilities.

Technical issues with the SafeCY app, including incorrect shelter locations, are also being addressed. Civil Defence is working with developers to update and verify the shelter data.

Finding new shelters is challenging as modern construction rarely includes basements, and authorities are reviewing legislation to introduce incentives for creating new shelters.

Pappa also highlighted the role of volunteers, who are trained twice a week in first aid, population care, communications, and neighbourhood support.

Obligated volunteers – including men who have completed military service and women who have finished their studies – receive training over two years.

The aim is to strengthen community resilience and ensure assistance for families and neighbours during crises.

Regarding special considerations, Pappa confirmed that current shelters are not designed for pets, but plans are underway to create spaces for animals alongside their owners.

Authorities are also exploring ways to accommodate residents with medical conditions or those requiring assistance to reach shelters.