SAUDI ARABIA: The Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia has released safety guidelines for Filipinos who may receive emergency warning messages through the Kingdom’s National Early Warning Platform amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
In an advisory issued Monday, the embassy said the guidelines were based on instructions from the Saudi Civil Defense, which operates the emergency alert system used to warn residents of potential threats such as missile attacks or other security risks.
The embassy urged Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to stay calm and follow official instructions whenever a warning message is received on their mobile devices.
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What Filipinos Should Do When Alerts Appear
According to the advisory, individuals who receive emergency alerts should immediately seek shelter in a safe location and remain there until authorities confirm that the situation is safe.
The embassy said people should move indoors, preferably to interior rooms away from windows, and avoid balconies, rooftops, and other open spaces where they may be exposed to potential hazards.
Filipinos were also advised not to leave their homes or buildings until the warning has been lifted by authorities.
If someone is outdoors when an alert is issued, they should quickly enter the nearest building or take cover behind a solid barrier for protection.
Safety Reminders During Emergency Situations
The advisory also emphasized several precautions to help residents stay safe during emergency alerts.
These include:
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Avoiding open areas, windows, and glass structures
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Staying away from crowded places and potentially dangerous locations
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Refraining from taking photos or gathering in affected areas
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Monitoring official announcements for updates
Authorities warned that emergency alerts are issued to provide early warnings, allowing residents enough time to move to safer locations.
What Drivers Should Do
For motorists who receive warning alerts while driving, the embassy advised pulling over to the side of the road and stopping in a safe area.
Drivers should avoid stopping under bridges, near high-rise buildings, or in other areas where falling debris could pose a risk.
Emergency Numbers for Immediate Assistance
Filipinos who observe potential danger or require assistance are advised to contact Saudi emergency services.
Authorities said residents can call 911 in the regions of Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, while 988 is used in other parts of the Kingdom.
Embassy Urges Filipinos to Monitor Official Updates
The Philippine Embassy also reminded Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to stay updated through verified sources.
Residents were encouraged to follow announcements from the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, as well as official advisories from Saudi authorities.
Officials said staying informed and following safety instructions will help ensure the well-being of Filipinos in the Kingdom as the situation in the Middle East continues to develop.