What to do in case of emergency? A step-by-step guide that every foreign tourist should know

An air raid siren in Ukraine is an important signal that helps protect residents and visitors to the country in case of danger. Even despite the war, tourism in Ukraine continues, and it is important for foreigners to know how to respond to sirens and where to find shelter. Learn how to stay safe and where to go for help during an alarm

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay on the territory of Ukraine

TAKE

Tourism in Ukraine continues even during the war. Despite the difficult situation, the country remains open to visitors who want to explore its culture, cities and unique routes. However, it is important for every foreigner to understand how to behave in the event of an air raid alarm. Knowing the basic rules not only increases your safety but also helps you stay calm.

What is an air raid siren and why does it sound?

An air raid siren is a warning system that alerts the population to a potential threat from the air, such as missile strikes or drone attacks.

When the siren sounds, it is important to understand that this is a signal for immediate action, not a reason to panic.

The alarm sound can indicate different types of threats (drones, missiles, bombs), but in any case, the main goal is to give people time to get to shelter and protect themselves. The warning system operates throughout the country, and tourists hear the siren just like local residents.

The air raid siren sounds continuously for 1 minute with a rising and falling tone. After a pause of up to 30 seconds, the sound is repeated at least three times. Unlike the air raid siren, the warning command ‘Attention everyone!’ sounds like an intermittent electric siren, a horn, or a loudspeaker announcement.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Mobile app: how to receive air raid alerts?

In addition to audible signals, tourists can install special apps, such as Air Alert!, which warn of the start and end of an alarm in real time. You can also use the online alarm map portal.

The app and website are available in English and other languages, show a map of danger zones, and help even those who are not familiar with the Ukrainian language to find their way around.

What to do if you are a foreigner during an alarm in Ukraine

If you hear an air raid siren, it is important to act calmly and quickly. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:

1️⃣ If you hear the signal, immediately go to the nearest shelter.

2️⃣ If you are in a hotel, ask the staff where the bomb shelter or safe zone is located. Most hotels have designated rooms.

3️⃣ If you are in a restaurant, museum or shopping centre, follow the signs for ‘Shelter’ and listen to the staff.

4️⃣ If you are outside, go to the nearest building and ask if you can go down to the basement or other shelter.

5️⃣ In a car — park your car and go to the nearest structure that can serve as a shelter.

6️⃣ Take your documents, phone, water, charger, and medication with you, if necessary.

7️⃣ Stay calm in the shelter, do not make unnecessary noise, and follow official announcements.

8️⃣ Stay in the shelter until the ‘all clear’ signal (alarm signal), which is also accompanied by a notification in the app.

How to find a shelter nearby?

❗️ In large cities, maps indicating shelters are often posted on the doors of houses and buildings. You can also use online maps (for example, from local authorities — here is Kyiv) or the Diya app.

❗️ Hotel, café and museum staff are usually ready to advise you on the nearest safe place.

How to get help in an emergency

If you need help during or after an emergency:

▪️ Call the general emergency number 112 — you will be connected to the appropriate service.

▪️ Contact your country's embassy in Ukraine, they can provide additional information and support.

▪️ Contact the police or volunteers — they will help you find your way around.

It is very important to take out medical insurance covering military risks in advance to ensure that you receive medical assistance if necessary, including treatment for injuries sustained during combat operations.

By knowing this simple algorithm and trusting official sources, you can feel more confident as you continue to explore Ukraine. Tourism in Ukraine in 2025 remains possible and safe, provided that rules are followed and warnings are heeded.

Reminder! The ‘two walls’ rule no longer guarantees safety during rocket attacks in Ukraine. Find out how the threats have changed, why you need shelter, and how to protect yourself while in the country.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.