Lithuanian residents debate whether neighbours can be denied shelter in basements or parking garages during emergencies

A resident of Klaipėda has raised concerns over whether neighbours without paid storage units or parking spots can be barred from using a multi-apartment building’s basement or underground garage as shelter during air raids or extreme situations, LRT.lt reports.

Kristina, who contacted the public broadcaster’s LRT GIRDI platform, explained that while her building’s basement could theoretically serve as a safer space in emergencies, access is restricted to those who have purchased storage units or parking spots—and possess the keys. Other residents, living in the same building, are left without the option to enter.

“I live in a multi-apartment building where the basement could, in theory, be used as a safer place during air threats or extreme situations,” she wrote. “But in reality, only residents who have bought storage units or parking spaces—and have the keys—can enter. The rest of us, living in the same building, cannot.”

Kristina said she had contacted the building’s administrator, who confirmed that basement storage units are private property, meaning only those who own them hold the keys. The situation has sparked debate among residents, with some arguing that since they paid for their spaces, they alone should have access. Others suggested she buy a storage unit first if she wants shelter.

“I think this isn’t just a problem for one building,” Kristina noted. “It’s likely that in many new apartment complexes, basements and underground spaces are only accessible to some residents, even though the danger in an emergency affects everyone equally.”

Fire safety department: shared spaces must remain accessible

In response to the query, Lithuania’s Fire Protection and Rescue Department (PAGD) clarified that while residents typically purchase specific parking spots in underground garages, common areas—such as driveways, shared zones, and other non-private spaces—remain accessible to all.

“First, it’s important to check whether the underground garage is officially designated as part of the municipality’s shelter network,” the department stated. “If it is included in the approved list, it must be accessible to all building residents who need shelter in an emergency.”

PAGD emphasised that the primary goal is public safety, urging residential communities to agree in advance on shelter access procedures to avoid confusion or conflict during crises. If a municipality has designated an underground garage as a shelter, its managers and the community must ensure residents can use it as intended when necessary.

For those uncertain about a building’s shelter status or access rules, the department advised contacting the building administrator or local municipality, which oversees shelter networks and provides related information.

The department also reminded residents that upon receiving an air raid warning, they should seek either an official shelter or another safe location. “Not all situations require reaching an official shelter, especially if it’s not quickly accessible,” the statement read. “A safe place could also be an interior room or hallway in your own home—without windows, as far as possible from exterior walls, following the ‘two-wall rule’ where at least two walls separate you from the outside.”

While shelters are one protective measure, the department stressed that residents should familiarise themselves with the nearest options and prepare for emergencies in advance.