By Benas Gerdžiūnas, LRT.lt.

Lithuania has been updating its shelter network since Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Two incidents involving Russian drones entering Lithuania in July prompted the public to question – where to hide in case of danger?

Almost all shelters are located in schools or other public buildings. For example, Vilnius is currently renovating 32 shelters, mostly in schools and kindergartens that have suitable basements. In peacetime, these premises serve their usual purpose and are inaccessible to the general public.

“If a threat arises at the national level, a decision may be taken to activate the shelter network. In such a case, a shelter must be prepared within 12 hours,” Vilnius City Council told LRT.lt.

At present, there are different levels of protection. Shelters (Priedangos, marked in yellow) are designed to protect from danger for just a few hours. Collective protection buildings (Kolektyvinės Apsaugos Pastatai, a blue triangle on an orange background) can accommodate people for at least several days, distribute aid, and serve as evacuation centres.

Meanwhile, bunkers (slėptuvės) are secret and are reserved for those keeping the state functioning during a crisis.

More read: LRT.LT