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What is Sigurno.info about?

A whole new website where you can find all the informations about your safety – in one place.

Sigurno.info is a website that talks about general safety (sigurno = safe) . The site is still in development, but the main goals are:

1. To collect all the safety protocols and information in one place.

2. To be a reliable source of information.

3. To prevent initial panic.

4. To react better in case of accidents and emergency situations.

 

After the pandemic, followed by an earthquake in Croatia, a lot of people were left traumatized. Moreover, aggression on Ukraine that could escalate into a global conflict raises additional concerns. Can it get any worse than that? Some would argue that in situations like these, we shouldn’t scare people even further by writing about other potential accidents and emergency situations.

Even so, the goal of the Sigurno.info website is not to evoke a continuous state of worry, but rather the opposite – it’s to collect all the simple and quick tips on how to keep safe in crisis, and by doing that – achieve calm and quick reaction in emergency situations. You might be asking, is this even possible?

We think it is possible. In reality, people in Croatia who have already experienced the devastating consequences of war, in their lifetime also witnessed serious injuries, faced death, and had to worry about the health of their child, and the potential of losing a job or property.
Long time ago we used to laugh at the actions like “Nothing Can Surprise Us” organized by State Civil Protection in former Yugoslavia. We didn’t see the point in having underground shelters when the Second World War was forgotten long time ago, and we all complained about how unnecessary is to have mandatory military service. It turns out that “the devil never sleeps”, and that it’s always good to be ready and prepared for the various troubles in life.

Our website will be providing links to official data from state services that are in charge of different crisis protocols, as well as expert advice. Even if we consider that many of us are familiar with the basics of providing first aid (which we had to pass exam when acquiring our driver’s license), we believe that there is still a lot more to be said about safety. Our website Sigurno.info should become the ultimate security guide for your whole family and your property.
We will cover themes from the consequences of abuse in the workplace, domestic violence, theft, public violence and riots, up to the current war conflicts. Some of these issues can (at least to a certain degree) be managed if we are more informed and prepared for emergencies.

The concept of safety during a war conflict sounds like an oxymoron, and of course, no one can guarantee safety during global catastrophes, but quality information and preparation are the preconditions for minimizing risk. This can at least help us navigate through these dangerous situations a little bit better.

Sigurno.info was created by Croatian company Euro Communications from Samobor near Zagreb (HERE), and in collaboration with our expert associates who have many years of experience in different fields of public safety and security.

Stay tuned!

(Photo: Freepik)

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How could children die in a fire like this?

The fire and tragedy at a Swiss ski resort—where, in a country otherwise known for strict compliance with regulations, children lost their lives in a fire that appears to have occurred precisely because the rules were not followed—strike at the very core of the issues we address on our portal.

Even when appropriate rules are applied in high-risk places, that is no guarantee that something won’t go wrong. It is even less certain that someone else will protect you if you yourself have not done everything possible to at least reduce the consequences of a potential accident. It is unlikely that parents will go and inspect the venue where their child is attending a celebration to see what the conditions are like. It is impossible to predict what kind of foolish decision the venue owners might make—such as lining the ceiling with highly flammable, fast-burning material. And in a basement room, no less. Who could have imagined that someone would climb onto a friend’s shoulders and use sparklers to set the ceiling on fire? Many will say, “We did even stupider things when we were young.”

Still, if you have read the advice on our portal about behavior at events where large numbers of people gather, you could have learned how important it is to follow instructions on how to act once an accident has already occurred. It is clear that young people who are having a great time will not immediately grasp how dangerous a fire is in a room they cannot leave quickly, so they excitedly shout and record the initial fire on their phones (which at that moment could still be put out), instead of extinguishing it quickly or leaving the room.

Likewise, it is unlikely that any of the visitors, upon arrival, checked where the fire extinguishers were located or which route could be used to exit quickly. Yet these are small details that can sometimes save your life.

That is why we advise you to talk to your children before they go out. Warn them about possible dangers, even if it seems to you that they are not listening. There is a chance they will remember at least some advice and act responsibly in a dangerous situation. Read about the topics we cover on the Sigurno.info website and briefly explain them to your children at the right moment.

However, when we see reports of severe injuries that children suffer from holiday fireworks—when parents buy dangerous pyrotechnics for their children and, without any preparation, let them use devices containing amounts of explosive material comparable to a hand grenade—it is clear that, as parents, we ourselves could do much more.

(Illustration by Freepik)

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Will there be a war?

How to respond to this question increasingly asked by concerned family members?

In the current global situation, with 190 armed conflicts ongoing and thousands dead or wounded worldwide (you can see detailed data HERE in a study published under the UCDP conflict research program), it’s not easy to provide an answer that won’t cause panic or depression. Due to the overwhelming wave of bad news, people are becoming more anxious and are starting to ask themselves and their families a key question – what should we do if the worst happens?

Although daily sensationalist news often turns out to be false, and the media frequently predicts the end of the world (if not from war, then from storms, disease, or some other disaster), which we somehow manage to survive – we should never underestimate human stupidity and destructiveness. Therefore, without panic, we should consider potential dangers and do everything we can to reduce the impact of crisis situations. Most importantly – try to follow information from reliable sources, without sensationalism or planted fake news. You can read more about that HERE.

As for war, unfortunately, we have experience and don’t need anyone to explain how people are capable of the worst atrocities (a term that is, at times, actually insulting to animals). Still, aside from the immediate danger of war, there are many associated risks such as disruptions in the supply of food, energy, transportation issues, and similar problems that affect millions of people.

It is also clear that in wartime conflicts, targets are not chosen carefully – civilians are deliberately and massively killed, and civilian infrastructure is destroyed. That too must be taken into account when planning protective measures.

As always in worst-case scenarios, important decisions must be made quickly: Should we stay or leave? When and where should we evacuate the children? Do we have enough food and water? These are questions we must prepare for in advance – assess the risks, agree on details within the family, and ensure we avoid creating panic, especially when informing children about such topics in an age-appropriate way.

> MILITARY SERVICE
One way to protect ourselves in wartime circumstances is to take up arms and defend ourselves. It’s clear that no sane person wants to send their children to “learn how to kill,” but we’re happy to send them to a self-defense course in case they are attacked. So it should be clear that military service can also be useful – if it is organized properly.

All of us who served in the military in the former state often considered our time in the Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA) as the most useless part of our lives, convinced we had learned nothing of value. However, as outdated and mentally numbing as the training was, we were wrong. Some of the skills we learned later helped us aid people in distress and defend ourselves against aggression.

Still, it’s important to understand that assessing the safety of your family isn’t only about worst-case war scenarios.

> COTTAGE / HOLIDAY HOME
After the pandemic and earthquakes, it became clear that a weekend house, coastal cottage, or family home in the countryside can serve as a practical shelter for a few days during a crisis. Thinking about having enough food and drinking water at such locations isn’t just a concern for preppers or those expecting doomsday. Talk to your family and friends about alternative accommodation options if you don’t have one of your own.

> SUPPLY
You can read more on our website about the challenges of supply chains in crisis situations. Many well-organized Western countries have detailed guidelines for citizens – how to prepare for survival in emergencies, including wartime conditions. Consider creating a small stockpile of food and water for a few days.

> TRANSPORT
In crisis situations, make sure you have a full fuel tank in case evacuation becomes necessary, stay up to date on traffic conditions (via HAK info, mobile traffic apps), and prepare a bag with essential gear. You can read more about this HERE.

> INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION
Real-time information about a crisis is essential for making decisions. Today, modern systems provide information not only through the internet, radio, and TV, but also via a wide variety of mobile apps – it’s important to test these and learn how to use them.

Of course, don’t forget about potential problems with mobile network availability or internet access. Be ready to rely on a radio receiver – even amateur (HAM) radios – for critical information.

> SHELTERS
During the Homeland War, we learned the importance of shelters. It’s a good idea to check with local authorities where the shelters are located, what condition they’re in, or what you can do to improve protective measures in your own home. It’s also an opportunity to evaluate your home’s safety not just for wartime, but for other disasters such as natural catastrophes, fires, floods, lightning strikes, or access for emergency vehicles.
It’s also wise to read up on survival equipment and procedures – there are plenty of resources available online, including on our own website HERE.

In any case, whatever happens – don’t panic. Prepare reasonably and according to your capabilities, keeping in mind that the worst may never come.

(Illustration: Freepik)

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Should We Still Go to USA?

Entry Issues into the U.S. Are Becoming a Growing Topic in the Media, especially following the start of the trade war and the new foreign policy of the U.S. President.

Recently, there has been an increase in cases where international travelers, including citizens of Western countries, have faced difficulties when entering the United States. Of course, the issue isn’t with standard and understandable security measures against terrorism, smuggling, and other criminal activities, which are applied by most countries. What caused concern were cases where travelers were singled out, subjected to additional screening, detained, or even denied entry into the country due to the content on their mobile devices or political views expressed on social media.

Searches of Electronic Devices at the Border

It’s important to know that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has the authority to inspect travelers’ electronic devices without a warrant upon entry into the country. According to their data, in 2024, only 47,047 electronic devices were searched, which accounts for less than 0.01% of all international travelers. CBP claims these searches are aimed at identifying threats to national security and other serious criminal offenses. They also emphasize that device inspections are “rare, strictly regulated, and focused on identifying and preventing serious crimes, including terrorism, smuggling, and visa fraud.” The agency denies allegations of politically motivated searches and highlights that all travelers are subject to the same rules and procedures.

Despite official statements, numerous reports indicate that some travelers were subjected to extra scrutiny due to political opinions expressed on social media. Some U.S. judges have ruled that such detentions were unlawful and violated freedom of speech. It should also be noted that although the famous Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution specifically protects privacy rights, these rights do not fully apply when entering the country. The question of whether authorities can search your devices (phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, etc.) without “probable cause” remains a topic of legal and public debate. Therefore, you should be aware that refusing access to your device data may cause problems upon entry. Nonetheless, despite everything mentioned, such cases still appear to be rare compared to the overall number of U.S. entries.

While the decisions of U.S. border officials can at times be questionable from the perspective of civil liberties guaranteed by the Constitution—and perhaps even legally disputable—consider carefully whether you’re prepared to risk spending a night (or more) in detention because of your (possibly entirely legitimate) beliefs or requests. There is also a possibility you could be sent back to the country you came from.

Official information on electronic device inspections upon entry into the U.S. can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website: HERE.

Recommendations for Travelers

> Limit personal data:  Consider using a device with minimal personal information while traveling.

> Turn off devices before reaching the border: This can help protect data from unauthorized access. However, it is recommended to cooperate with border officials when entering the U.S.

> Be aware of your rights – and risks:  While U.S. citizens cannot be denied reentry for refusing to unlock their devices, the devices can be confiscated, and the individual can be detained for questioning. Foreign nationals may be denied entry if they refuse to cooperate with U.S. authorities, and they may be detained during an investigation.

U.S. Travel Trends

After a strong upward trend in the number of entries to the U.S. following the pandemic years, the first three months of 2025 saw the first recorded decline in international arrivals—down 3.3%. New data suggests this decline is accelerating, with March showing an 11.6% decrease compared to the same month last year. When factoring in projected decreases from countries most affected by the trade war and new tariffs—such as Canada, Europe, and Australia, from which traditionally large numbers of visitors travel to the U.S.—it becomes clear that border procedures are also playing a role in the drop in tourist arrivals.

In any case, before traveling, it is wise to consider the possible situations you might encounter when entering the U.S. and to prepare for the new inspection procedures.

You can find more information about preparing for safe travel and avoiding potential issues on our website HERE.

 

(Illustration: Freepik AI)

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Post-Truth Strikes Back

Living in the Age of Post-Truth and Preparing for Its Consequences.  

As we’ve already discussed on our website (see HERE), lies, misinformation, manipulation, hybrid threats, misuse of new media, and the chaos of social networks have become such pervasive issues that we seem to have forgotten what truth really means.

While one could argue that all this reflects a form of societal madness, when it comes to security, the systematic spread of lies can have serious consequences. Therefore, it is never excessive to remind ourselves to be aware of what’s ahead.

Philosophers once sought the truth; today, it’s a topic that, as though it’s a completely new concept, grabs the attention of the public and media (whatever their nature). Lies have become so dominant and difficult to discern that even books about them have gained popularity. Noteworthy recent works range from witty observations filled with truth, like Tom Phillips’ humorous book “Truth: A Brief History of Total Bullsht”*, to the bestseller by Swedish scientist Åsa Wikforss, “Alternative Facts: On Knowledge and Its Enemies.”

However, as leading intellectuals and scientists attempt to make sense of what on earth is happening to us, wars rage worldwide, lunatics in power threaten to use nuclear weapons, and after years of environmental destruction, nature is pushing us toward global catastrophe.

Yet, lies are not a new invention. They’ve always been with us. It’s no coincidence that we often cite Machiavelli, who as far back as 1521 wrote: “For a long time, I have neither said what I believe nor believed what I said, and if I happen to utter a truth, I hide it among so many lies that it becomes hard to find.”

Today, even robots know that fake news circulating online is dangerous. To verify this, we asked artificial intelligence what the dangers of fake news are, and here’s the response:

The Dangers of Fake News:

1.Erosion of Trust in Media and Institutions
Fake news erodes trust in journalism, political institutions, and experts. Constant exposure to false information makes people skeptical of reliable sources, undermining social cohesion and trust in democratic processes.

2.Polarization of Society
Fake news is often deliberately spread to deepen existing societal divides, fueling conflict and extremism. It manipulates emotions, creating stronger feelings of anger, fear, or hatred toward specific groups or individuals.

3.Impact on Democratic Processes
Fake news can disrupt elections and political processes by spreading disinformation about candidates, parties, or key issues. It manipulates voters or undermines trust in election results, destabilizing democracies.

4.Manipulation of Public Opinion
Fake news creators often steer public opinion toward specific political or economic goals. Such misinformation is used to sway public opinion in favor of certain laws, products, or political movements.

5.Health and Safety Risks
Fake news about health, such as misinformation on vaccines or COVID-19, can lead to dangerous outcomes. It fosters mistrust in medical professionals and health systems, resulting in fewer vaccinations, poorer health outcomes, or disregard for safety recommendations.

6.Economic Consequences
Fake news can directly impact the economy by spreading misinformation about companies, markets, or products, leading to stock price drops, consumer mistrust, or market destabilization.

7.Hybrid Threats and Cybersecurity
Fake news is often part of broader hybrid warfare strategies, used alongside cyberattacks to destabilize states. Such misinformation can incite panic, insecurity, or social chaos, jeopardizing societal stability.

8.The Era of “Post-Truth”
In a “post-truth” society, emotions and personal beliefs outweigh facts. This fosters an environment where people choose information that aligns with their views, regardless of its accuracy, impeding rational debate and decision-making.

These dangers underscore the importance of promoting media literacy, encouraging critical thinking, and supporting legislative measures to counter the spread of disinformation.

So, while robots understand why lies are dangerous, people often just shrug it off. Countless discussions revolve around why lies captivate or, in some cases, even appeal to us more than the truth. One cannot help but reflect when reading about “fact nihilism” (Åsa Wikforss, “Alternative Facts”), a concept that gained traction with Donald Trump’s rise to political prominence in 2016.

It’s well-known that the former and newly re-elected U.S. president has a penchant for outright lies and nonsense. According to The Washington Post, between 2017 and 2021, he made over 30,000 false or misleading claims. Yet, this didn’t lead to widespread ridicule or electoral failure; quite the opposite. Trump garnered half the votes cast in 2016 (approximately 63 million) and 74 million in 2020. His recent electoral performance has been even better.

Let’s be realistic—finding a politician who doesn’t lie today is akin to winning the lottery. Increasingly, their winning formula seems to be this: the more I lie, the more votes I get. At first glance, this seems illogical, especially if we recall the famous saying, “You can fool some of the people all the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time,” often attributed to Abraham Lincoln. Yet, it seems that in today’s era of artificial intelligence and human folly, this adage no longer holds.

The term “post-truth” was first recorded in 1992 by American playwright Steve Tesich in an essay for The Nation. Tesich used “post-truth” to describe how the U.S. public and political elites began ignoring facts conflicting with dominant narratives, particularly after scandals like Iran-Contra and the Gulf War. The term gained popularity in 2016, during Brexit and the U.S. presidential elections, when misinformation and manipulative information were used to shape public opinion. That year, Oxford Dictionaries named “post-truth” the Word of the Year, defining it as a situation where “objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief.”

Today, the term describes an era where emotional and political convictions outweigh factual reality, contributing to the spread of disinformation and public polarization across social and traditional media.

One possible reason for the flood of lies around us may lie in so-called political correctness, the excessive caution not to offend or embarrass anyone, which (regardless of the facts) could lead to legal disputes.

During Donald Trump’s first presidential campaign in 2016, a heated debate emerged in mainstream media, where journalists questioned the definition of lies. In English (and Croatian), a lie is defined as a statement knowingly and intentionally presented as false with the intent to deceive. Unless someone proves you lied knowingly and intentionally (which is challenging because the “liar” can always claim ignorance or lack of intent), you can’t be accused. The conclusion is clear: lie as much as you want and later feign ignorance.

Even the latest Croatian clash between the president and the government, featuring mutual accusations of lying about Croatian officers’ participation in NATO’s support program for Ukraine, is more than mere political squabbling. It demonstrates how deception becomes dangerous when it concerns national security or has consequences for each of us.

After all this, if you’re wondering whom we can trust today, there’s an answer. According to psychological research (the “false belief test,” Wimmer and Perner, 1983), a three-year-old doesn’t understand that someone else can misunderstand something. By age four, children begin to grasp the concept of error, and even lies. So the logical solution emerges: if you want to ensure you’re not being lied to—don’t talk to anyone over the age of four.

(Illustration: Freepik AI)

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Ready for anything

Preppers – conspiracy theories, reptilian people, end of the world, life in underground shelters, and similar concepts are no longer the prevailing image that “preppers” have in the public eye.

Preppers (also known as survivalists) are people who are often defined as those who intensely prepare for an impending catastrophe or collapse of civilization, and accordingly plan, prepare, and test survival methods and strategies. Although they have often been criticized as extreme groups prone to conspiracy theories, after some time and the spread of similar movements globally, it has been shown that they are a diverse group of people whose intentions are not always bad. After all, the spread of violence at all levels has forced us all to rethink how to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

The useful advice of preppers is similar to the rules of emergency services:

Emergency bag (a bag with items necessary for the first 72 hours of danger, in addition to the standards recommended by emergency services, preppers often add basic tools, hunting knife, duct tape, etc.)

Evacuation (evacuation routes, meeting places, means of communication, key contacts, etc.)

Water and food (three days of necessary food supplies for evacuation, as well as for two weeks if staying at home, but some prepper groups advocate the need to create larger reserves for longer periods)

Shelter (weekend house, cabin, tent, improvised shelter away from home…)

Equipment (first aid kit, but also exercises, tools and supplies, mobile phones, batteries, etc.)

Navigation and spatial orientation (basic navigation without electronic aids, advance planning, bringing maps, compasses, and other equipment depending on plans…

Reserve clothing and footwear, depending on the type of disaster or event and plans for each situation

Self-defense and safety (skills and training, types of weapons, safety rules in crisis situations)
Planning and training (making family plans for different types of risks, assigning tasks within the group, training (through games with children), procedures for different types of risks (fire, flood, earthquake).

Of course, there is always someone in every group prone to exaggeration or extremism (in the media, the worst, psycho-pathological cases are often highlighted), but if someone enjoys spending time in nature (like hikers or hunters), while developing survival skills in extreme situations, it seems today like a reasonable, interesting, but also useful hobby. After all, what the media often calls “bushcraft” is actually an old and well-known skill of survival and navigation in nature. If the state cares about crisis situations through the civil protection system, those among us who are well-intentioned, want to help others in distress, and have survival, first aid, or self-defense skills, can contribute to the community in crisis situations.

From publicly available data, it can be perceived that Croatian preppers are more moderate than American ones (whose story was based on a kind of Doomsday cult), not bound by conspiracy theories, political and religious views, but more focused on real, local issues. Although it seems like all security issues today are actually global, our “preppers” are more realistic, aware of the types of risks in their immediate environment, and sometimes based on their own experiences. In future topics, we will describe Croatian prepper experiences firsthand, talk to experts, and select crisis management experiences that are useful for the wider population.

(Photo: Freepik)

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Safe travel

Credit card and mobile phone are not always enough while traveling

In today’s world, traveling has become so common that few people bother to prepare for possible problems. However, they can always arise even in well-known, seemingly safe destinations. We generally think – there is always money on the plastic card, we cannot get lost because we have a phone with navigation, and we can communicate in foreign languages in the same way. So, what could go wrong? Unless we lose that precious little thing with a colorful screen.

Our advice is: even when you feel safe, at least read the tips for safe travel.

1. Information and documents

  • Prepare for the trip, check the security situation in the country you are traveling to.
  • Find a security assessment with details about the current situation at your destination – in addition to the pages of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia:
    Information from Ministry
  • To check individual destinations, you can use data from countries with a developed diplomatic and informative network of open access. For example:
    US info
  • or online travel service information such as:
    Travel information
  • Check if a visa is required for the country you are traveling to and what is the issuing process.
  • Check the validity of your passport (in some countries, Croatian citizens can travel with a valid ID card, provided that it is not older than 2003), however, some countries require the passport to be valid for another 3-6 months after entry.
  • Here you can find information from the Ministry of the Interior about countries that allow entry only with an ID card:
    Ministry of the Interior – crossing borders
  • Don’t forget that when entering another country, there may be an obligation to register the entry, and failing to do so may result in high fines and bans on entering certain countries.
  • Make a photocopy of your passport/ID card. The copy will make it easier and faster to obtain a travel document in case of loss or theft of the passport.
  • Check which Croatian embassy is competent for the country you are traveling to (write down the address and phone numbers).
  • Check which currencies are the means of payment in individual countries, whether it is possible to pay by credit card, and what is the minimum amount of money you need for your stay.
  • Inform your relatives and friends about the trip, and it is useful to leave contacts of a person in Croatia to whom the Ministry can turn in case of need.
  • If you are Croatian citizen, in case you are traveling to distant countries and security-risk areas, you can provide your travel plan to e-mail address: konzularni.poslovi@mvep.hr, so that the Embassy staff can contact you if needed. The Ministry recommends that you include the following information in such correspondence:
    • Your full name and mobile or phone number where you can be reached during your stay abroad.
    • Information on whether you are traveling through a tourist agency, on your own, or by any other means.
      Place and time of stay.
    • Hotel or other accommodation where you will be staying.
    • Notify your family of any changes to your plans or other information while traveling.
    • Use mobile location tracking and sharing applications during your trip.
    • Have important contacts printed on paper in case of theft, loss, or phone failure.
    • Make copies of the most important documents (ID card, passport, flight tickets, etc.)

2. Health

  • Check regulations related to local COVID procedures.
  • Get information about the health situation at your destination, as well as in case of health problems.
  • Bring your medications if you are taking any.
  • Collect information about health insurance conditions during your stay abroad on the website of the Croatian Institute for Health Insurance (www.hzzo.hr), and if necessary, obtain and bring the European Health Insurance Card (https://hzzo.hr/zdravstvena-zastita-u-inozemstvu).
  • Due to diseases caused by the COVID-19 virus, bird flu, influenza A (H1N1), SARS, Ebola, malaria, viral meningitis, and other similar diseases, obtain detailed information before traveling on the websites of the World Health Organization (www.who.int), and on the website of the Croatian Institute of Public Health (http://www.hzjz.hr/) to learn about vaccination options before leaving abroad.

3. Scams and thefts

  • Pickpockets, thieves, and scammers are active in most countries in tourist hotspots (train stations, tourist attractions, beaches, etc.).
  • Blend in with the environment, as experience shows that potential scammers target tourists who stand out, are unsure, confused, and easily deceived.
  • Be discreet in communication, do not reveal too much information about yourself, keep money, mobile phones, and valuables in a safe place.

4. Violence and laws

  • Although Croatia is one of the safest European countries, respect the laws and customs of the country you are traveling to, and when staying in Islamic countries, respect local dress and behavior customs. In some countries, there are laws that provide for long prison sentences, and even the death penalty for possession of drugs and other prohibited substances.
  • The danger of terrorism is global. Terrorist attacks are most often carried out in places where a large number of people gather (airports and train stations, tourist centers, religious gathering places, markets, etc.), and they often result in many civilian casualties. We advise you to seek information about the current situation in the country you are traveling to from all available sources before traveling.
  • Even when not traveling to countries with a low level of public safety, it is useful to inform yourself in advance about the basics of self-defense and tools that can help you in case of danger.
  • There are numerous courses, and among the globally most respected are skills such as Israeli Krav Maga:
    https://krav-maga.hr/
  • Special rules, courses, and information should be sought when traveling to crisis areas affected by war conflicts, unrest, frequent demonstrations, low levels of public security, and generally higher security risks (especially robberies, kidnappings, and other forms of crime).

5. Transportation

  • If you are traveling with a tourist agency, check their information about the situation at the destination.
    Some agencies that sell airline tickets have a well-organized 24-hour global support service for passengers, so you can contact them in case of problems, for example – especially known for the quality of travel support is the Zagreb travel agency Sunčana Vura:
    https://www.suncanavura.com/
  • Check information on air traffic safety at:

https://ec.europa.eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban_en

http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/safety/pages/index.aspx

  • or services for checking restrictions when entering a particular country (especially in air transport, with an overview of COVID-19-related restrictions, visas, and similar limitations) such as:
    https://www.iatatravelcentre.com
    https://www.traveldoc.aero/
  • Inform yourself about potential transportation problems to the destination, announced strikes, demonstrations, weather conditions, traffic conditions, traffic problems, and other risks that may disrupt your travel.
  • Regardless of whether you are traveling with a tourist agency or on your own arrangement, consider travel insurance carefully. There are different types of insurance that cover risks ranging from car breakdowns to the costs of treatment in case of an accident (especially in cases of sports activities such as skiing and similar), so inquire about the conditions in agencies and with insurers. The details of insured cases are important, as are the areas of application of intergovernmental agreements, given that for some emergency medical interventions in the EU, your European Health Insurance Card applies, which you can find out more about here: EU Health Insurance Card

6. Natural disasters

  • In some countries, natural disasters such as severe storms, avalanches, extreme heat or cold, floods, earthquakes, and other natural phenomena are common, so information about such areas should be sought in a timely manner as well as evacuation and communication plans should be made, and you should read the instructions from local emergency services on how to behave in crisis situations.
  • As well as other European countries Croatia have the same phone number 112 for all emergency services (police, fire department, ambulance, mountain rescue and civil protection).

(Photo: Freepik)

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The content of emergency bag

Equipment for all types of crisis situations should be planned in advance and placed in a bag (also called Bug out bag) whose contents can be also used as a reserve in all circumstances. Although, until the recent earthquakes in Croatia, the usual idea of an emergency kit was that it was almost unnecessary, very rarely or never used, after all the problems that have arisen recently, we realized that it is a very useful “tool”.

Especially when we realized that emergency situations occur suddenly, without warning, and without enough time to take action before fleeing the dangerous area. In addition, due to increased pace of life, travel, relocation, and similar reasons, it is always useful to have on hand, for example, copies of important documents, spare batteries, and similar things that can be used in everyday circumstances and when there is no danger.

In this section, we will provide descriptions and sometimes tests of different kits and equipment to help in crisis situations…

Contents of the survival kit in case of a disaster:

The kit or bag should contain basic personal documents, items listed in the list, should be of small dimensions, made of waterproof material, and should be kept in a safe and easily accessible place:

  • List of important phone numbers (on paper)
  • First aid kit (make your own kit and see advice HERE)
  • Medications for chronic patients (therapy that you need to take every day)
  • Spare glasses and lenses
  • Money (cash)
  • Copies of all important documents (can also be used in case of loss)
  • Mobile phones and chargers (additional battery for charging, if you have a GPS handheld device or watch with navigation option)
  • Spare keys to the house and car
  • Personal hygiene kit
  • Pen and paper
  • Swiss army knife or hunting knife, multitool, strong adhesive tape, whistle, etc.
  • Matches and lighters
  • Sturdy shoes and spare clothes
  • Flashlight with spare batteries
  • Radio with spare batteries or inductive charging
  • Water in a bottle (consumption of 2 liters per person per day)
  • Canned and non-perishable food (can opener, cutlery)
  • Food and sweets with longer shelf life
  • (Baby food, pet food)
  • (Covers and spare clothes, if possible)
  • (If you have other equipment such as handheld radios, etc.

It is good to prepare in advance for a disaster:

  • Make your own plan for emergency situations. Talk to your family members, agree on how to contact each other in such situations, which way to go, where to meet, and what to do in crisis situations (a list of contacts and important numbers, besides in your phone, it is also good to have it on paper).
  • Inform yourself about plans for disaster situations at your workplace, school, and other institutions that your children attend, and where other household members stay.
  • Determine a meeting place that must be well known and provide safety to all family members.

Various kits and equipment used to help in emergency situations in the household will be described separately:

  • Household medicine cabinet and first aid kit
  • Bag with a complete first aid kit
  • Fire extinguishers (learn how to use them)
  • Smoke and gas sensors (professionally installed)
  • Mobile phones and apps (learn how to send your location, as well as basic crisis communication)
  • Battery chargers, battery packs, solar chargers
  • Handheld flashlights
  • Radio receivers (battery operated or with a hand crank for inductor power)
  • Handheld radios (“walkie-talkies”)
  • Survival navigation kits (compass, maps)
  • GPS navigation equipment (like Garmin, Magellan, etc.)
  • Self-defense equipment (basic martial arts skills, various types of weapons, etc.)
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Snow joys or sorrows

Dangers lurk in all seasons, and winter has its own “specialties” that should not be overlooked.

The initial associations with winter and snow usually bring to mind romantic images of childhood joy, sledding, skiing, building snowmen, and snowball fights. Those who are a bit older usually think of snow removal, treacherous ice, and plaster casts on their arms. Both are realities, but it is wise to prepare for winter conditions (or unexpected storms) and reduce the risks of unpleasant memories.

 

Winter risks and precautions:

  • Icy surfaces: We all know that icy surfaces can be dangerous for pedestrians as well as in traffic, but we often forget to prepare appropriate footwear and anti-slip accessories, as well as clearing our cars of snow and timely fitting of winter tires.
  • Snowstorms: Snowstorms are particularly dangerous in mountainous areas, as they can come quickly and create serious problems for unaccustomed tourists.
  • Snow and ice falling from roofs: In cities, the falling of snow and ice from tall buildings is especially risky, requiring extra caution and proper warnings in hazardous areas.
  • Avalanches: Although our regions do not have conditions like those in high mountains, we must be mindful of snowdrifts and avalanches, as well as the potential for difficult traffic, which can lead to serious problems, especially if you get trapped or isolated.
  • Cold temperatures and frostbite: Despite being told from an early age to dress warmly, today, when we spend less time outdoors, it seems like we have forgotten the rules of layered clothing and preparation for extreme weather conditions. The risks increase, especially in mountainous areas when encountering cold and damp air that “penetrates to the bone” can happen very quickly. Combined with difficult movement due to snow and poor visibility, tragedy can strike even close to home or shelter.

 

Croatian Red Cross tips for cold weather:

  • Follow cold weather warnings and avoid going outside if not necessary.
  • Dress in multiple layers of warm clothing, preferably made of materials that retain heat and are resistant to moisture.
  • Individuals with chronic illnesses, particularly heart or respiratory conditions, are advised to avoid exposure to cold.
  • In case of freezing rain, frost, or snow on the ground, be cautious of slippery sidewalks and roads, as there is an increased risk of falling and bone fractures.
  • During low temperatures, avoid heavy physical work in outdoor spaces and any activities that cause rapid breathing.
  • Assist family members, friends, and neighbors who spend most of their time alone.
  • Do not ignore feelings of cold and shivering, which are signs that indicate the need for warming up and taking a break from the cold.
  • If initial symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite appear (tingling, loss of sensation in fingers, pale skin, pain), immediately seek a heated area, remove damp clothing, and gradually warm the person by wrapping them in blankets. Do not expose the person to a direct heat source. It is recommended to provide warm non-alcoholic beverages (tea, soup) and seek professional medical assistance or call Emergency Medical Services at 194 or the universal European emergency number 112.

However, amidst all of the above, in today’s fast-paced way of life, we often forget that there are those who simply don’t always have everything they need to keep warm. The socially vulnerable, older people without families, homeless individuals, and everyone else who cannot protect themselves from the cold. That’s why now is the right time to get involved in actions organized by the Croatian Red Cross and other aid organizations.

For protection against cold – Croatian Red Cross recommendations, see: -> HERE

For the protection of the elderly in cold weather – Recommendations from the Andrija Štampar Public Health Institute, see: -> HERE

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Outdoor accidents

Members of the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service are often perceived by injured individuals as angels from heaven who have come to save them.

Volunteers – rescuers

Members of the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS) are often seen by the people they have helped as angels from heaven who have come to save them. And rightfully so. These individuals are always ready to help, willing to board a helicopter, jeep, or boat in the middle of the night, taking on risks to their own lives just to assist someone in distress. Furthermore, they do not receive any salary for such dangerous work. They are volunteers, something that few people understand today.

In addition, they strive to share their knowledge and advice with everyone. On their website at https://www.hgss.hr/, you can find a wealth of useful information. Here, we highlight the basic tips regarding actions to take in the event of an accident:

 

In case of an accident:

  1. Maintain composure and calm yourself and others.
  2. Protect the injured person and yourself from immediate danger (such as falling, falling rocks, suffocation, cold, moisture, etc.) in the best possible way.
  3. Provide first aid to the injured person within the limits of your knowledge and capabilities.
  4. Mark the location of the accident or the location where the injured person is (especially in winter).
  5. Urgently notify HGSS about the accident – call 112.

 

Notification of an accident in the mountains or other difficult-to-access terrain where assistance from the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS) is needed can be made:

  • Through the Unified Operational Communication Center at phone number 112.
  • Through the designated phone numbers of the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service stations (HGSS).
  • At HGSS information points, which are usually equipped mountain lodges marked with the HGSS logo and sign.
  • Via the police at phone 192.
  • Through emergency medical service stations at phone 194.
  • To any member of the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (red jacket with HGSS logo and sign).

 

The accident report should include the following information:

  1. Name, surname, and telephone/mobile number of the person making the report for further contact.
  2. The source of information about the accident (as a witness or intermediary).
  3. The location of the accident (precise description).
  4. Information about the injured person (surname, name, age, address).
  5. Description of what happened (cause and type of injuries).
  6. Actions taken so far (type of initial first aid provided, who has been notified).
  7. Weather conditions at the accident site.
  8. Access route to the accident site.

 

Call for help:

In the mountains or on cliffs, a call for help is given through light or sound signals. The call and response should be repeated until a clear and intelligible connection is established. Call signals are given six times per minute, every other minute, and the response signals are given three times per minute, every other minute. Assuming the “Y” position (upright body with raised outstretched arms) signifies that assistance is needed, as well as firing a red flare.

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