Israel under attack: what do we have to do during a rocket attack?

Israelis have long been accustomed to the reality of rocket attacks. The country has developed an efficient and well-structured system to protect civilians, ensuring that even during heavy rocket barrages, casualties remain minimal. In this article, we’ll break down how Israel’s alert systems work, what citizens have to do when sirens go off, and how and why why the Iron Dome plays a crucial role in national defense.

Rocket attack.

Understanding the warning systems

Israel has implemented a multi-layered warning system to alert civilians in case of incoming rocket fire.

The Home Front Command operates an official APP that provides real-time alerts based on the user’s location, giving precise instructions on what to do in various scenarios.

Additionally, the Red Alert app is widely used, sending notifications directly to mobile phones, sometimes even before the sirens sound.

The most immediate and widely recognized warning system, however, remains the outdoor sirens, which emit a distinct wailing sound to signal imminent danger. These sirens are placed throughout the country and are calibrated to alert only the areas at risk, preventing unnecessary panic elsewhere.

Responding to a rocket siren

The moment a siren goes off, swift action is required. The time available to seek shelter varies depending on location, with those in central Israel typically having around ninety seconds, while residents of southern cities such as Sderot may have as little as fifteen seconds.

Finding a protected space is crucial - designated bomb shelters, reinforced safe rooms inside buildings, and even stairwells serve as viable options. Most of the buildings in the country have either an underground shelter or a shelter inside each apartment, and there are multiple shelters along the roads.

In situations where no shelter is accessible, moving away from windows, crouching down, and covering one’s head can help mitigate risk. Once inside a secure space, it is advised to remain there for at least ten minutes to account for potential secondary attacks or falling debris. The all-clear signal is not given immediately, as rocket interceptions or impacts may still pose a danger even after the initial siren has stopped.

The Iron Dome and civilian safety

Israel’s ability to maintain relatively low casualty numbers during rocket attacks is largely due to the Iron Dome, an advanced missile defense system designed to intercept incoming projectiles.

When a rocket is detected, the system rapidly assesses its trajectory and determines whether it poses a threat to populated areas. If deemed dangerous, an interceptor missile is launched to destroy the rocket in mid-air. While the Iron Dome has a high success rate, it does not eliminate the need for taking cover, as no defense system is flawless and it has a 95% effectiveness.

Beyond technological defense measures, Israel’s overall preparedness plays a crucial role in minimizing casualties. The combination of efficient early warning systems, widespread availability of shelters, and public awareness ensures that civilians know how to react quickly in emergencies.

As mentioned above, buildings are also constructed with security measures in mind, often incorporating reinforced safe rooms to provide residents with immediate protection.

Living with the threat

While the reality of rocket fire is unsettling, Israel has adapted to these challenges with remarkable efficiency. The combination of technological innovation, strategic infrastructure, and public cooperation has significantly reduced the risk to civilians. Though the threat remains, knowing how to respond effectively allows both residents and visitors to navigate these situations with a sense of security.