Since the previous brochure was published in 2018, a lot has happened. Russia is waging a full-scale war against Ukraine, and an armed attack against Sweden cannot be ruled out.
The new brochure is thicker, 31 pages instead of 20. The purpose is to spread knowledge so that people can prepare themselves.
We inform to create calm, says the Minister for Civil Defense, Carl-Oskar Bohlin (M).
He emphasizes that there is no immediate war threat against Sweden. But the brochure also points out cyber attacks, influence campaigns, terrorism, and sabotage.
"Such things can happen at any time, and much is happening here and now", it says.
Risk of nuclear weapons
New is a section on nuclear weapons. "The global security situation increases the risk of nuclear weapons being used", it says. Citizens are urged to take shelter in the same way as during air raids. Bomb shelters are best. "After a few days, the radiation has decreased significantly", it says.
New is also that it is clearly stated that everyone should prepare to be able to take care of themselves for at least a week. When the previous brochure was published, they envisioned a couple of days.
Bohlin emphasizes that it's about solidarity with society - being able to take care of oneself in order to help others.
The point of home preparedness is not to run and hide in the woods and have nothing to do with the rest of society, he says.
Think about pets
The new brochure will be distributed in mailboxes from November 18th.
If you haven't already taken responsibility for your home preparedness, it's absolutely high time to do so, says Bohlin.
The advice has become more numerous, for example, how to handle when the toilet stops functioning. "For feces, you can put a plastic bag or trash bag in the toilet", it says.
An insight from the Ukraine war is that it's important for everyone to know how to stop bleeding on an injured person. Press directly on the wound with straight arms, for example, with a rolled-up t-shirt.
A page is dedicated to pets. "You are responsible for your pet's well-being also in crisis and war. You can take your pet to protected areas such as basements and subway stations during an air raid. If you have to leave your pet at home, you can put out extra water", it says.
Bomb shelters are, however, for humans, according to Bohlin. But there is reason to look deeper into the issue, according to him, since there is a lack of clear legislation.
You need at least three liters of water per day
Buy bottled water or fill containers made for food
If the water may be contaminated, boil the water until it bubbles vigorously
Hang blankets over windows and cover floors with carpets in your home to keep warm
Choose a room to stay in to keep warm
Store food that can be quickly prepared, requires little water, and can be eaten directly
Have cash in different denominations at home for at least a week
You can urinate in the toilet even if it can't be flushed
For feces, a plastic bag can be placed in the toilet
Make sure to have prescription medication, for example, for diabetes, for a month at home
It's good to have a camping stove, fuel, matches, flashlight, and can opener at home.
Source: If crisis or war comes
