What to do when authorities issue an emergency warning

On the yellow brick wall the black text "Helsingin yliopisto, Helsingfors universitet".

On Friday morning, 15 May, many people did a double take when they noticed an official warning to stay indoors because of a drone threat. The situation was resolved quickly, but many already had time to consider whether to travel to work or for an exam.

Mikko Savela, the University’s Head of Security, lays down a ground rule:

“We comply with instructions issued by authorities. If they tell people to stay indoors, we don’t go outside unless there is a compelling reason to do so.”

Straying drones have made authorities rethink their directives, with the rescue services releasing up-to-date instructions. The University monitors changes in official guidelines and updates its own general instructions as needed.

“We are also looking at our work-related guidelines to keep them current for any similar exceptional circumstances later,” says Director of Human Resources Tiia Tuomi.

Tuomi emphasises that the University is flexible in such circumstances:

“These situations are fortunately rare. Ensuring safety is the priority. In exceptional circumstances, you should always talk with your supervisor, agreeing on work duties and other matters. We will not withhold a couple of hours’ salary if employees are unable to work onsite due to official warnings and cannot telecommute either.”

Instructions pertaining to education, teaching and studying will also be elaborated on further.

Head of Security Savela points out that units should consider how various exceptional circumstances affect their operations and how to prepare for them.

Brief guidelines for staff and students

When authorities urge you to stay indoors:

Do not go out except for compelling reasons.
Follow official and University communications.
Work or study over remote connections if possible.
If you are a teacher, reschedule contact teaching and examinations if necessary. In prolonged situations, switch to remote teaching if possible.
The University recommends using the 112 Suomi app provided by the Emergency Response Centre Agency. The app serves as a channel for emergency warnings issued by public authorities. Remember to adjust the notification settings as desired.

Up-to-date drone threat instructions by the rescue services (Rescue Services)
General instructions for emergency situations at the University (Studies Service)

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Photo: Anniina Sjöblom (University of Helsinki)