Taiwan has begun distributing a 32-page crisis guide to millions of households across the island, aiming to prepare residents for natural disasters or a potential military attack from China.
The booklet, titled “In Case of Crisis”, provides instructions on assembling emergency “go bags,” responding to air-raid sirens, administering first aid, and countering disinformation from “hostile foreign forces” in the event of an invasion.
“This is the first time we are providing printed emergency guidelines to the public, ensuring that elderly residents and those without internet access can receive crucial information,” Defence Minister Wellington Koo told lawmakers.
Residents expressed mixed reactions. Jay Tsai, 31, said the guide was reassuring and plans to keep it with his emergency supplies. “I hope we never need it, but it’s good to have,” he said.
Others, however, questioned the guide’s practicality and cost. IT worker Yang Chen-che, 38, called it “more political than practical” and said he would likely discard it. Opposition legislator Yeh Yuan-chih criticized the NT$60 million (US$1.9 million) printing and delivery expense.
Taiwanese officials noted the booklet was modeled on similar guides recently distributed in Sweden and France. Lin Fei-fan, deputy secretary-general of the National Security Council, said the guide reflects Taiwan’s determination to defend itself.
President Lai Ching-te’s administration plans to distribute the booklet to nearly 10 million households by early January, with officials emphasizing the importance of preparedness in light of global conflicts like the war in Ukraine.
Community leader Chi Chien-han said the guide serves as a reminder to stay alert, while 60-year-old Chiang Chu-hsuan criticized it as a “waste of money,” urging efforts to avoid war.
Despite divided opinions, the government maintains that the guide is an essential tool for public safety in uncertain times.
