Mock Drill and Emergency Preparation - What To Do?
India is conducting a nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill today to train people and test emergency systems for war-like situations.
On 7th May 2025, India is witnessing a nationwide Civil Defence Mock Drill—an important move by the government to prepare citizens for any possible emergencies, especially during wartime situations. ISH News had earlier released a detailed video explaining the purpose and details of this drill. Today, this drill is being carried out across many states in the country.
These drills are meant to check whether our emergency response systems are working properly. This includes testing control rooms, communication with the Air Force, rescue operations, and training people on how to keep themselves safe during an attack. Today, some key parts of the drill will be practiced on the ground.
One of the major exercises today will be the playing of loud sirens, which are used to signal an air attack. This is only for practice, so that people become aware that in real situations, such a siren means danger from enemy aircraft, and they must take quick safety steps.
Another crucial part of today’s drill will be the blackout practice. In the evening or at night, sirens will be played, and after that, there will be a complete switch-off of lights. Street lights, hoarding lights, and lights in homes and shops will need to be turned off. Even small sources of light like matchsticks, candles, or phone torches should not be used. If you have a light or TV on at home, you must close the curtains so that the light is not visible from outside. Vehicle lights will be dimmed, and people outside must avoid using any kind of light. This is done to make sure enemy planes cannot locate cities or villages at night.
Evacuation drills will also be part of today's mock exercises. Volunteers will practice helping elderly people, children, and persons with disabilities to reach safe locations. People will be told where to go and how to move quickly in case of an actual emergency. At some places, people may be asked to step out of their houses, get down from trains, or move to different locations—this is just a drill to see how prepared everyone is. Watch what others are doing and follow the same.
Another important part of the drill is camouflage. Important buildings like power plants or factories will be covered and made less visible so that they cannot be easily identified by enemies from the air. Other safety steps mentioned in earlier ISH News videos will also be followed during the drill.
While ISH News will continue trying to make all updates accessible, sometimes delays or gaps may happen. That’s why it’s important for everyone to stay alert and aware. If you’re at home, observe the outside—if others are switching off lights or moving out, you should do the same. Talk to neighbours and ask them to inform you in case sirens are heard or if evacuations begin. Be observant of how others react, especially if you are unsure what to do.
You can also prepare your phone by turning on “Government Alerts” to receive official safety messages. It is helpful to download offline maps in case mobile networks don’t work during emergencies. Save important local emergency numbers for fire, police, and hospitals. Keep a torch app and ensure it works.
As part of long-term safety, make a small emergency kit at home. This kit can include a pair of clothes, basic medicines, a first-aid box, torch, power bank, batteries, water bottles, dry snacks like biscuits or dry fruits, and emergency cash. Also, laminate important identity documents so they don’t get damaged. Know the nearest shelters, talk to children and teach them what to do in an emergency. Discuss exit plans with your family.
Finally, stay calm, avoid spreading or believing in rumours, and always follow official government instructions.
Be Alert, Not Afraid.
