Shelters designed for protection during explosions listed on Latvian marketplaces
In the heart of Riga, Latvia, an unusual real estate market has emerged, offering bomb shelters for sale. However, concerns about their safety and compliance with regulations have arisen, as these shelters may not have been inspected or adhere to the necessary guidelines.
The advertisements for these shelters promise a range of amenities, including showers, beds, water, and fully-stocked kitchens. Some even offer the option to buy a single bed in a dormitory-style setting, while others provide the chance to purchase the entire shelter, including basement rooms. Prices for these shelters vary significantly, ranging from around €2,500 to nearly €200,000.
Uldis Ķevers, the head of the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD), has expressed caution about these offerings. He urges potential buyers to proceed with caution, as it remains unclear if these shelters exist and can be used safely. The VUGD has no information that these shelters have been inspected, and there is no specific information available about the regulation of privately-owned bomb shelters in Riga under Latvia's Civil Protection Act.
According to Ķevers, the prices quoted in the advertisements may not be a sound investment. He suggests that it may be more cost-effective to convert one's home basement into a shelter. The new amendments to the Civil Protection Act stipulate that approved shelters are available free of charge.
The majority of these shelters are still state and municipal property, as stated by Ķevers. It is important to note that the location for one shelter, where only a single bed is for sale, is not specified in the advertisements.
For those seeking emergency shelters in their neighbourhood, the '112 Latvija' app can be a useful resource. However, the safety and compliance of these privately-owned shelters remain a concern without confirmed inspections and specific information about Latvian regulations.
To ensure safety and compliance, it is advisable to seek official guidance from local authorities or civil protection agencies. Directly contacting the shelters or local authorities for information on their safety and compliance could provide the necessary insights. As the situation develops, it is crucial to stay informed and prioritise safety in emergency preparedness.
Investing in a bomb shelter in Riga's real-estate market could be questionable, given the uncertainty about their safety and compliance with regulations. Uldis Ķevers, the head of the State Fire and Rescue Service, recommends considering alternative options such as investing in arranging a home basement as a shelter, which might prove more cost-effective in the long run.
