Nonstop air-raid sirens and rockets targeting the Tel Aviv metropolitan area (Gush Dan) from Iran, have forced millions of Israelis into their safe rooms (Mamad), often in the dead of night. While most civilians remained glued to news broadcasts or alert apps, rescue and firefighting teams worked at directly struck sites and returned with life-saving recommendations, some sounding trivial, others surprising, but all born from blood, dust and shattered glass.
Here are the five items you should keep in your Mamad to ensure you can react quickly if a missile hits your residential building directly:
1. Closed-toe shoes
One of the most common incidents reported involved residents sprinting into the Mamad without shoes, then having to exit into a devastated apartment where floors were littered with debris, glass shards and chunks of wall. In several cases, people were injured while trying to walk barefoot over sharp fragments. Recommendation: leave a pair of sturdy closed-toe shoes by the door inside your Mamad, ready for quick donning.
<br>2. Emergency bag
Evacuation of a rocket-struck building often comes with a strict ban on reentering the apartment due to risks of structural collapse or rekindled fires. Rescue teams therefore advise keeping a prepacked bag inside the Mamad containing at least one to two days’ worth of clothing, essential medications, cash, a power bank, your passport and ID card, car keys, and other vital documents such as insurance papers or bank account details. In a sudden evacuation, this kit can greatly reduce needless hardship.
3. Pet supplies
Numerous cases have been documented in which residents were pulled from apartments without knowing the fate of their dogs or cats. If you have a pet, include in your Mamad some dry food, a leash, and a pet carrier or quick-grab basket. If you cannot take your animal with you, leave a clear note on the door indicating that an unaccompanied pet requires help, this alerts rescuers immediately to check.
<br>4. Building resident registry
Rescue personnel have sometimes spent hours searching for missing people in damaged buildings. To streamline this process, keep an up-to-date list of every resident in your building and post it at both the main entrance and on each floor. This makes it far easier to account for anyone who hasn’t emerged and prevents unnecessary search efforts.
5. Power bank and water for extended stays
Given that many are forced to remain in their safe rooms for prolonged periods amid ongoing security threats, it’s essential to maintain basic communication and well-being supplies. A power bank lets you stay connected, receive alerts or call for help even during power outages. A personal water bottle—ideally with a secure cap—prevents dehydration during long stays. Firefighters also recommend keeping simple snacks, a lightweight blanket and a small flashlight on hand.
By preparing these five items in advance, you’ll be far better equipped to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of a direct missile strike on your building.