Foreign Ministry Warns US Citizens In Ukraine: If You Hear A Siren, Lie Down And Cover Your Head With Your Hands

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JAKARTA - The State Department has issued a security alert for US citizens in Ukraine. They even provide guidance for US citizens if an explosion is heard in Ukraine.

"There have been reports of Russian attacks on targets in a number of major Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Ivano-Frankivsk and Mariupol. US citizens in Ukraine are advised to take shelter in place and take the following actions," wrote @USEmbassyKyiv as seen on Wednesday, February 24.

"If you hear a loud explosion or if the siren is activated, seek cover immediately."

"If in a house or building, go to the lowest level of the structure with the fewest exterior walls, windows, and openings; close all doors and sit near interior walls, away from any windows or openings."

"If you are outdoors, seek shelter immediately in a rigid structure; if that is not possible, lie down and cover your head with your hands."

There are reports of Russian attacks on targets in a number of major Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Mariupol. U.S. citizens in Ukraine are advised to shelter in place and take the following actions:

— U.S. Embassy Kyiv (@USEmbassyKyiv) February 24, 2022

Quoted from NBC News, the State Department said that the US government would not be able to evacuate citizens from Ukraine quickly. They asked their citizens to remain vigilant.

"Further Russian military action could occur at any time without warning. US citizens throughout Ukraine are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness," the memo said.

The memo encourages residents to know where to go for cover and what to do after an attack.

"Know the location of your nearest shelter or sheltered area. In the event of mortar and/or rocket fire, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately," the warning said.

"If you feel that your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location."