kiirjuhul

Kiirjuhul is an Estonian phrase meaning “in case of emergency” or “in urgent situations.” It is used to introduce instructions, guidelines, or procedures that should be followed when something unexpected or dangerous occurs. The construction combines kiir- (urgent, rapid) and juhul (case, occasion), reflecting its function as a preface to urgent actions.

In written Estonian, kiirjuhul appears in safety notices, manuals, and emergency-preparedness materials. It is commonly followed by imperative phrases or numbered steps, such as “Kiirjuhul helistage 112” or “Kiirjuhul järgige esmaabi juhiseid.” It is generally used in formal or semi-formal contexts, though it can appear in everyday language as well.

The term is not a technical term with a defined legal status; rather, it is a conventional expression signaling that the following content concerns urgent, emergency-related actions. It is best translated as “in case of emergency” and is understood by Estonian speakers in the context of safety communications.

See also: Emergency management; Safety instruction; First aid.