Frequently asked questions
Water, sirens, emergency numbers, evacuation, power outages, weight and delivery.
How much water do I really need?
Per person per day, 3 litres to drink and another 10 for cooking and hygiene. The box has bottled water and containers to fill when an outage threatens. Finish an opened bottle within 24 hours; bathtub water is only for washing after 24 hours.
Which number should I call?
112 works across the EU and also accepts text messages. Also 155 ambulance, 150 fire brigade and 158 police. Emergency lines are not an information service; get information from the radio and official websites. A card with the numbers is in every box.
What do the sirens mean?
A rising and falling tone for 2 minutes means a general threat: go inside and follow the news. A steady tone for 6 minutes is a flood threat. A steady tone for 2 minutes without repetition ends the threat. Sirens are usually tested on the second Friday of the month at 12:00.
What should I do in a long power outage?
When power returns, recharge phones and power banks at once and fill the bathtub and canisters. Open the fridge as little as possible. Never use a grill or generator indoors. The full steps are in the Power outage guide, in the box and on this page.
What if there is no signal?
A text message often gets through when a call does not. You will hear official instructions on the radio in the box. Agree on a meeting point with your family and use walkie-talkies with your neighbours.
Is the box enough for an evacuation?
The box is a home supply for the pantry or cellar. For an evacuation, everyone packs their own rucksack, weighing at most a fifth of their body weight, and carries documents on their body. Box S also fits in a car boot.
How do I deal with fear and panic?
Panic is a normal reaction to stress. Slow breathing, a normal daily rhythm and news only from trusted sources at set times all help. People with a plan and supplies panic less.
Why are there no medicines or iodine tablets in the box?
Medicines are sold by pharmacies and iodine tablets are taken only when the authorities say so. The box has a pouch and a list of what to add. Keep a reserve of regular medicines, for example for a month after talking to your doctor.
Will my box look exactly like the pictures?
The box itself is always the same: colour, size, glowing rim and labels. We test the products inside and choose them for each box separately by availability, quality and price, so brand or look may differ from the pictures. Function, quantity and value stay the same or better, and every product is meant for the EU market and for use in emergencies.
How do you know exactly what is in my box?
Every item has an EAN or QR code and every kit its own unique code. We know exactly what we sent you and will let you know when a power bank needs charging, dates need checking or something needs servicing or replacing.
How heavy is the box?
Depending on size and kit level, from about 8 kg up to 25 kg. Larger kits come in two or three boxes so that each one weighs at most 25 kg. Each box has handles for carrying.
Is there a manual in the box?
Always. A paper picture manual in Slovak and English with steps for children, adults and seniors, plus an emergency numbers card and a family emergency plan.
Does the box really glow in the dark?
The lid rim is made of photoluminescent material that charges in light and glows in the dark. The reflective band shines when a torch hits it.
How long do the contents last?
Emergency water and food rations 5 years, freeze-dried food 10 years. Open the box once a year and check the dates; the date is on the check label. Recharge power banks at least every three months.
Do you deliver to Czechia?
Yes, within 3 working days. Choose Czechia at the top of the page to see prices in Czech crowns.
Can I return it?
Yes, an unused box within 30 days, no reason needed.
Is the box approved by the ministry?
No. The seal "Following the recommendations of the Slovak Interior Ministry and the EU" means the contents match the public recommendations of the Slovak Interior Ministry and the EU Preparedness Union Strategy. It is not an official approval or certificate.
Where is the SOSBOX put together?
In Slovakia. We pack and check every box here, which is why it carries the Slovak and EU flags. The electronics inside are CE marked.
Can I see the box before buying?
Yes. Book a free visit and an adviser brings samples and helps you choose.
Step-by-step guides: 16 guides · Official recommendations by district: sources