Ukraine

Country: Ukraine

• Country code: UA
• Official language: Ukrainian
• Currency: Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH)
• Time zone: Eastern European Time, Eastern European Summer Time in summer
• Power supply: usually 230 V / 50 Hz, plug types C and F

Ukraine has large cities, rural areas and critical infrastructure that may be severely affected by the war. Power cuts can quickly disrupt communications, heating, water supply, card payments, transportation, fuel stations, stores and medical services.

The security situation can change very quickly from one region to another. Local authority information, air-alert notices and official instructions must always take priority over general advice.

The most important emergency numbers in Ukraine should be saved offline and also kept in printed form.

• 112: single emergency number / coordination of several emergency services
• 101: fire brigade and state emergency service / civil protection
• 102: police
• 103: ambulance / medical emergency
• 104: gas emergency service

In immediate danger, use 112 if possible. If 112 is not reachable locally or lines are overloaded, call the appropriate direct emergency number. Use emergency numbers only for real emergencies.

In Ukraine, air alerts, sirens and regional warnings are especially important. When an air alert is announced, do not wait; go immediately to the nearest shelter.

• Sirens / air alert: warning of drone, missile, air or artillery danger.
• Warning apps: apps such as “Повітряна тривога / Air Alert” provide alerts for selected regions, districts or communities.
• Local authorities: follow regional instructions, closures, curfews and emergency information.
• Radio: keep a battery, wind-up or car radio available because internet and mobile networks may fail.

Shelters and assembly points in Ukraine are organised locally and may change depending on the city, district and current threat situation.

• Know the nearest shelters, basements, underground parking garages, metro stations or official shelters in advance.
• When an air alert is announced, seek shelter immediately and stay there until the all-clear is officially given.
• Agree a fixed meeting point and a second backup point with family, neighbours or travelling companions.
• Keep a small emergency bag ready with documents, water, medication, flashlight, power bank and cash.
• Do not photograph or publish military facilities, checkpoints, damage or emergency responders.

Household preparedness in Ukraine should be taken especially seriously because electricity, heating and water supply may fail or be restricted at short notice.

• Prepare drinking water, shelf-stable food and baby food for several days, ideally at least 10 to 14 days.
• Keep medicines, first-aid supplies and personal long-term medication ready.
• Prepare a battery or wind-up radio, flashlights, spare batteries, power banks and charged devices.
• Keep cash in small bills, as card payments and ATMs may stop working.
• Plan for warm clothing, blankets, sleeping bags and simple cooking options.
• With generators, camping stoves or heaters, strictly observe fire and carbon monoxide risks and never use them indoors.

During power cuts, air alerts or security incidents, instructions from Ukrainian authorities, local administrations and emergency services are decisive.

Because of the war, curfews, checkpoints, traffic restrictions, short-notice evacuations and regional special rules may apply. Travellers should identify shelters in advance and continuously monitor local media.

Foreign citizens should check the advice of their foreign ministry and embassy before travelling. Important contacts, documents and insurance details should be available offline and on paper.