Confusion followed a series of air raid drills across Poland on Saturday, with residents unsure whether they were tests or actual warnings, leading authorities to reinforce safety protocols.
Misunderstanding of Alerts
The communication breakdown became apparent in towns like Chełm and Świdnik, where residents were unsure whether to take the sirens as actual alarms. Some residents reportedly panic bought while others remained in denial.
MSWiA Guidelines
In response to the confusion, Poland’s Ministry of Interior and Administration (MSWiA) published a detailed guideline explaining the appropriate actions during air raid alerts, including staying calm, following radio and television instructions, and informing family members and loved ones.
Multi-Channel Alert System
The Ministry highlighted four primary alert mechanisms: communication through the Regional Warning System (RSO), media outlets, radio and television broadcasts, and text messages from the Government Security Center (RCB).
