Introduction to the National Early Warning Platform
As part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and protect lives and property, the Saudi General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued a set of vital guidelines to be followed immediately upon receiving warning messages from the National Early Warning Platform. This platform is one of the most important modern technologies relied upon by relevant authorities for managing crises and emergencies. It utilizes cellular broadcasting technology to send instant messages accompanied by a distinctive alarm tone to mobile phones within the targeted geographic area, ensuring that the warning reaches them as quickly as possible, even if the phone is on silent mode.
The importance of adhering to civil defense instructions
These guidelines are of paramount importance at both the local and national levels, as community awareness and rapid response to instructions significantly reduce human and material losses. Disaster and emergency management is not solely the responsibility of government agencies; it requires the active participation of citizens and residents through full adherence to official instructions. This facilitates the work of rescue teams, prevents crises from escalating, and preserves community safety.
Important steps to take when receiving warning messages in emergency situations
The Civil Defense, through its official account on the “X” platform, explained a set of steps and guidelines to follow when receiving warning messages before and after the event occurs, as follows:
- Remain calm: It is essential to maintain complete calm and avoid panic, while strictly following official instructions to ensure proper conduct.
- Seek a safe haven: Head immediately to the nearest safe place inside the building, preferably an interior room away from windows, and stay there until the danger has passed.
- Stay indoors: Do not leave the house or building at all until the state of emergency is officially declared over.
- Stay away from windows and glass: Avoid standing on balconies or rooftops, and stay away from exposed areas and glass surfaces to avoid injuries from flying shrapnel.
- Proper action outdoors: If you are outdoors when the alarm sounds, quickly enter the nearest building, or take cover behind a solid barrier.
- Avoid crowding and taking pictures: Avoid crowding in dangerous locations or being preoccupied with taking pictures altogether, as this hinders the efforts of rescue teams and puts your life at direct risk.
- Instructions for drivers: When you receive the warning message while driving, immediately pull over safely to the side of the road, away from bridges and tall buildings.
- Contacting Emergency Numbers: If you notice any immediate danger, call the unified emergency number (911) in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions. For the rest of the Kingdom, please call (998).
- Obtain information from its sources: Be sure to take instructions and updates issued by the competent authorities through official channels only, and avoid spreading rumors.
In conclusion, these measures confirm the high readiness of the Saudi Civil Defense sector and its constant commitment to harnessing the latest technologies to ensure the safety and security of society in the face of any potential emergencies, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to providing a safe and stable environment for all.
