Air raid sirens, evacuations & first aid: What you should know about today's 4pm drill

TNN / Updated: May 7, 2025, 11:55 IST

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New Delhi is gearing up for air raid drills, emphasizing citizen preparedness. Residents should familiarize themselves with siren sounds, locate shelters, and prepare emergency kits. Training sessions will educate on first-aid and safe spaces. Blackout measures include window coverings and switching off outdoor lights. Evacuation plans involve identifying routes and preparing 'go-bags'.

Air raid sirens, evacuations & first aid: What you should know about today's 4pm drill

New Delhi is gearing up for air raid drills, emphasizing citizen preparedness

NEW DELHI: A major emergency drill will be held in Delhi on Wednesday at 4 pm to prepare people for situations like air raids, blackouts, and evacuations. The drill is designed to teach citizens, including students and families, how to stay safe and react quickly during emergencies. Here's what we should know about the drill:AIR RAID WARNING SIRENS:

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Preparation steps for citizens

Familiarise yourself with the air raid siren sounds (long wails for alerts, short bursts for all-clear)
Identify the nearest shelter locations, such as basements, underground car parks or designated safe zones
Keep a basic emergency kit ready - torch with extra batteries, water bottles, non-perishable food items, first-aid kit

During the Drill

Immediately stop outdoor activities and proceed to the nearest shelter
Avoid using phones, unless necessary, to keep communication lines free for emergencies
Follow instructions from authorities or wardens present in the area
Do not ignore the sirens or assume it is unimportant
Avoid panicking or creating unnecessary commotion
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CIVILIAN AND STUDENT TRAINING:

Preparation steps for citizens

Attend community training sessions conducted before the drill
Teach children basics of emergency response - dropping low and covering their heads
Identify safe spaces at home, school or neighbourhood
Practise first-aid techniques like treating minor injuries or CPR

During the Drill

Actively participate and follow the instructions given by trainers
Ensure children and elderly are included in all steps of the exercise
Avoid dismissing importance of these drills for children or yourself
Do not assume that others will take responsibility for your safety

CRASH BLACKOUT MEASURES:

Preparation steps for citizens

Install thick blackout curtains or blinds on all windows
Prepare your home to operate without lights
Use light-blocking materials like dark cloth or cardboard on windows
Ensure outdoor lights are switched off 40om Out
Test your preparedness by simulating a blackout with family members

During the Drill

Turn off or cover all light sources, including electronic devices such as TVs and phones
Keep torches and candles ready but avoid placing them near windows
Do not use light that could be visible from outside
Avoid stepping outdoors unnecessarily during blackout

Camouflaging Vital Installations

It is primarily for authorities, citizens can be vigilant and supportive

During the Drill

Observe and learn how authorities camouflage vital installations
Support by ensuring smooth access for authorities conducting the exercise
Do not interfere with camouflaging activities or enter restricted areas

Preparation steps for citizens

Report any unfamiliar activity near critical installations to authorities
Avoid sharing sensitive information about local facilities on social media

EVACUATION PLAN UPDATES AND REHEARSALS:

Preparation steps for citizens

Study evacuation routes and identify nearest shelter or safe zone
Prepare a 'go-bag' with essentials -identification documents, emergency contact numbers, medicines, snacks and water
Practise evacuation plan with family members
Avoid photographing or posting about the drill online

During the Drill