The Swedish handbook: “In Case of Crisis or War” (Official Resistance & Resilience Brochure for Citizens)

This brochure is distributed to every household in Sweden on behalf of the Swedish government. The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) is responsible for the content. 

We hope that the contents of this brochure will motivate critical thinking about citizen’s responsibilities during uncertain times.

To all residents of Sweden:

We live in uncertain times. Armed conflicts are currently being waged in our corner of the world. Terrorism, cyber attacks, and disinformation campaigns are being used to undermine and influence us. To resist these threats, we must stand united. If Sweden is attacked, everyone must do their part to defend Sweden’s independence – and our democracy. We build resilience every day, together with our loved ones, colleagues, friends, and neighbours. In this brochure, you learn how to prepare for, and act, in case of crisis or war. You are part of Sweden’s overall emergency preparedness.

Here is a brief survey of major citizen responsibilities during uncertain times.

The brochure emphasizes that individual preparedness contributes to national strength!

Read the full document.

1. Personal Preparedness

• Citizens are expected to (pg. 15):
• • Be self-sufficient for at least one week
  • Prepare essential supplies:
    • Water (3 liters per day)
    • Non-perishable food
    • Heat sources
    • Communication devices
    • First aid supplies
    • Cash and alternative payment methods

2. Total Defence Duty

•  Key responsibilities (pg. 9):
• • Applies to all residents aged 16-70
  • Potential military or civil defence service
  • Willingness to support Sweden’s defence system
  • Proceed to designated wartime posting if called

3. Psychological Resilience

• Critical mental preparedness (pg. 22):
• • Be critical of information sources
  • Verify information from multiple sources
  • Resist disinformation campaigns
  • Maintain emotional stability during crises

4. Community Involvement

•  Collective preparedness includes (pg. 6):
• • Joining voluntary defence organizations
  • Completing emergency CPR courses
  • Donating blood
  • Strengthening neighborhood preparedness
  • Supporting essential public services

5. Emergency Response Readiness

• Immediate action protocols (pg. 24):
• • • Run: Get away from dangerous locations
    • Hide: Secure yourself if escape is impossible
    • Tell: Report emergencies
    • Follow official instructions
    • Avoid spreading unverified information

6. Digital and Personal Security

•  Cybersecurity responsibilities (pg. 23):
• • Create strong passwords
  • Avoid clicking unknown email links
  • Install security updates promptly
  • Backup important information

7. Emotional Support and Communication

•  Personal well-being (pg. 30):
• • Talk about anxieties with support networks
  • Manage news consumption
  • Support children during uncertain times
  • Seek professional help if needed

“We build resilience every day, together with our loved ones, colleagues, friends, and neighbours.”

Contents:

• In uncertain times, it is important to be prepared 5
• Together we make Sweden stronger 6
• Swedish defence 7
• Heightened state of alert 8
• Total defence duty 9
• Warning systems 10
• Seeking shelter during an air raid 12
• Home preparedness 15
• Evacuation 19
• Civil defence shelter 20
• Psychological defence 22
• Digital security 23
• Terror attacks 24
• How to stop bleeding 25
• Extreme weather events 26
• Pathogens 27
• If you require special assistance 28
• If you have pets 29
• If you are worried 30
• Talking to children about crises and war 30
• Important phone numbers and more information 31