Nicosia: The Government of Cyprus has launched a nationwide text messaging system aimed at providing accurate and timely information to citizens, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou announced on Wednesday. The system's introduction is marked by a test SMS sent to all mobile phone users in Cyprus at 19:00, as part of the country's preventive self-protection measures.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Interior Minister emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant due to the ongoing chaotic situation in the region. Citizens are urged to be prepared to take recommended self-protection measures if necessary. Ioannou detailed that upon receiving a text message, individuals should remain calm and follow specific instructions.
The instructions advise that if there is a basement available in their residence, a neighboring building, or the vicinity, citizens should proceed there calmly and on foot. In the absence of a basement, individuals should stay indoors, away from doors, glass, and windows. Those outdoors are instructed to seek the nearest indoor shelter.
Infrastructures such as schools, hospitals, and stadiums will follow a protocol managed by competent personnel. Ioannou highlighted the importance of avoiding travel to these areas by vehicle. Until further directions are issued by authorities, citizens are encouraged to stay in underground or indoor spaces and refrain from traveling outdoors.
The Minister further explained that the Government, in collaboration with all telecommunications providers in Cyprus, has implemented this messaging system to ensure citizens receive valid and timely information. This will enable them to take necessary measures suggested by Civil Defense in potential security incidents.
A test of the new service will be conducted today around 19:00, marking the introduction of this security and information measure for citizens. Meanwhile, an inspection of all 2,500 shelters is underway, with completion expected within 2-3 days. Competent sources confirmed that inspection and repairs, where needed, are being conducted by assigned teams.