In mid-May, within the framework of the Latvia–Lithuania cross-border cooperation project "MassMovement" (No. LL-00103), two major public information events took place in Daugavpils and Liepāja. Their primary objective was to foster public resilience, as well as to improve community knowledge and understanding of the correct course of action during various hazard scenarios. The events and project activities are co-funded by the European Union's Interreg Programme, making a significant contribution to the development of the regional security system.
In Daugavpils, a competition organized by the "Latvian Red Cross" society brought together more than 140 active young people. Meanwhile, in Liepāja, the “Drošības pietura” (Safety Stop) event, hosted by the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD), was widely attended and attracted numerous families with children.
To guarantee personal safety and that of fellow citizens in emergencies, timely preparedness is of decisive importance. Visitors to the events had the opportunity to test and supplement their skills in an interactive way. Guided by experts, residents learned how to identify reliable sources of information, gained clarity on when to call the single emergency number 112, and mastered response protocols for evacuation scenarios. Furthermore, attendees learned about the operation of the cell broadcast system and discovered which essential items and documents must be included in an emergency go-bag (72-hour bag).
Following these public education initiatives, the next practical phase of the "MassMovement" project will begin. Project partners are already actively planning the first practical evacuation drills, scheduled to take place in the summer of 2026. These drills will simulate realistic conditions to fine-tune cross-institutional cooperation between various operational and municipal authorities, as well as to test the execution of evacuation processes in practice. This ensures that, if necessary, any evacuation of residents can be carried out in an organized, timely, and highly effective manner.
We extend our gratitude to every resident and guest of the border region who participated in the events, asked questions, and actively engaged in discussions regarding crisis situation management!
