Test emergency text at 7pm on Wednesday

The government on Wednesday issued new self-protection guidance and announced the launch of a nationwide mass SMS alert system, urging residents to remain calm and vigilant.

A test message will be sent to all mobile telephone users at around 7pm on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference, interior minister Constantinos Ioannou said the system will allow authorities to send rapid written warnings to all mobile phones in Cyprus, providing timely instructions during potential security incidents.

“This is a preventive measure and an important tool for the immediate and valid information of residents,” Ioannou said, adding that the aim is to ensure people know exactly what to do if a warning is issued.

Under the guidance released by the civil defence, members of the public who receive an alert are advised to move calmly on foot to the nearest basement, whether in their home, a neighbouring building or the surrounding area. This does not apply to the test SMS message on Wednesday.

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

 In schools, hospitals and stadiums, existing emergency protocols will be implemented by trained staff, and the public is urged not to attempt to travel by vehicle to such locations.

Authorities further advised the public to remain in underground or indoor spaces until further instructions are issued and to avoid unnecessary movement outdoors, either on foot or by car.

Addressing concerns about shelter capacity, Ioannou acknowledged recent reports that the island’s 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, stressing that all other states rely on civil defence protocols similar to those announced on Wednesday.

The new SMS system has been developed in cooperation with all telecommunications providers and, according to the government, will be activated whenever a potential security incident is being assessed, allowing the public to take protective measures without delay.