Finns to receive more advice on preparing for emergency conditions
Ministry of the Interior
Publication date 4.5.2026 13.19
Type:Press release
The Ministry of the Interior has launched a project to develop guidance for the public on how to prepare for emergency conditions. The guidance will complement existing preparedness advice in the Preparing for Incidents and Crises guide published on Suomi.fi.
The project promotes individual emergency planning, which is a key objective set out in the Government Programme. Its purpose is to provide people with sufficient basic information to help them prepare for and act in emergency conditions.
The Preparing for Incidents and Crises guide, aimed at everyone living in Finland, was published on the Suomi.fi Web Service in November 2024. It brings together guidance from a range of organisations on how to prepare for and act during different types of incidents. The sections on military conflict and civil defence have been among the most popular. Reader feedback has also highlighted a need for more guidance on preparing for emergency conditions.
“It is important that we respond to the need to learn more about how the authorities operate in emergency conditions and what role the public plays. After all, people are a key part of society’s security,” says Project Manager Mika Lehestö.
Changes in the international security environment also mean that citizens need stronger skills for individual emergency planning. Finland is not facing an immediate military threat. Preparedness is being developed on a long‑term basis, as joint preparedness by the authorities, businesses, organisations and the public helps safeguard the functioning of society even in times of crisis.
Guidance to also support authorities’ preparedness and advisory role
The project aims to harmonise the guidance, advice and public safety communications issued by rescue services, as well as the information different organisations provide on preparedness for emergency conditions. The guidance will also support the implementation of emergency plans in emergency conditions.
The project will run until 30 April 2028. Its outputs include short guides and related communications, which will be published on the Ministry of the Interior’s channels, on pelastustoimi.fi and at various events. The Preparing for Incidents and Crises guide on Suomi.fi will be updated in line with the new guidance. The Ministry of the Interior will also publish a guide containing the key instructions in its publication series.
The project is funded by the Fire Protection Fund.
