The Role of Shelters in Civil Defense

Abstract

This paper is devoted to the review of the creation and evolutionary perfection of shelters in the leading countries of the world and in Georgia at different stages of human development. It is known that in order to reduce the risk of emergency situations, preventive measures are planned, for the implementation of which various structural and non-structural measures are used. The concept of civil defense emerged during World War II and aimed to protect the civilian population from hostilities, especially nuclear threats. Over time, civil defense strategies were developed taking into account the current threats and technology at that time. It should be noted that coordination and preparedness were taking place at the regional and national levels. Civil defense strategies are constantly evolving, on the one hand in response to the emergence of new threats, and on the other hand by developing better response methods to existing threats. Today, many States have built public shelters, which are mostly located in underground spaces, such as subway stations, basements of public buildings, or in buildings specially built for this purpose. In addition to shelters for civilians, there are shelters for military personnel, from which fighters can conduct combat operations.
The following main types of modern shelters are discussed. Due to their strength, they can be used in case of nuclear attacks. Nuclear explosion shelters are also designed to protect against radioactive substances. Their construction began during the Cold War, when the threat of nuclear war was high. They were often located in basements, underground structures or specially designated buildings.

Considering the danger facing Georgia, it is necessary to maintain the shelter system. This should implementation, like the above-mentioned countries, by developing a legal framework. The law should regulate the specific types of newly built housing (eg size, strategic location, etc.) to have shelters. Also, with the involvement of military engineers, the standard of construction of shelters should be determined and their compliance with the standard should be monitored.