Taiwan Rolls Out 32‑Page 'In Case of Crisis' Guide to Millions of Households as Tensions Rise

Taipei has begun delivering a bright orange, 32-page booklet called "In Case of Crisis" to households across Taiwan to help residents prepare for both natural disasters and the possibility of a military confrontation. The printed guide includes practical advice on emergency kits, air-raid responses, basic first aid and how to spot and resist disinformation during a conflict.

What's inside the booklet

The guide explains how to assemble a "go bag," what to do when air-raid sirens sound, and basic first-aid steps. It also warns that "hostile foreign forces" may use disinformation to undermine public morale and includes a clear statement: "In the event of a military invasion of Taiwan, any claim that the government has surrendered or that the nation has been defeated is false."

Government rationale

Defence Minister Wellington Koo said the printed edition ensures people without reliable internet access — especially elderly residents in rural areas — can obtain the information. Officials reviewed similar emergency booklets from countries such as Sweden and France when compiling Taiwan's guide.

Public reaction and criticism

Reactions have been mixed. Jay Tsai, 31, a 3D animation specialist, said the booklet is reassuring and plans to keep it near his emergency supplies. Community leader Chi Chien-han, 43, said it is a useful reminder to stay alert. Others were critical: IT worker Yang Chen-che, 38, called it more political than practical and said he would likely discard it, while community leader Chiang Chu-hsuan, 60, labeled the distribution a "waste of money" and urged leaders to redouble efforts to avoid conflict.

Cost, rollout and context

Opposition legislators questioned the NT$60 million (about $1.9 million) cost for printing and delivery. The government expects to finish distributing the guides to nearly 10 million households by early January. Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to prepare Taiwan's 23 million residents for disasters or armed conflict — a concern that has gained urgency for some people following recent global events such as the war in Ukraine.

"I hope we'll never need it but it feels reassuring to have," said one resident.

The booklet is intended as a practical, widely accessible resource rather than a substitute for official alerts or emergency services. Officials encourage households to supplement the guide with locally available emergency information and to maintain basic emergency supplies and communication plans.