Even a high-tech society can easily become unstable if important infrastructure and supply networks fail. This does not necessarily have to be a nationwide disaster. The emergency can also occur locally: for example, due to a power failure, a house fire or a storm.
Once the crisis has occurred, it is usually too late to take precautions. Because: If there is a fire, you have to act immediately. If the water rises and evacuation is imminent, you don’t have time to pack. And if, in an extreme case, the power goes out for days, you should have emergency supplies in the house (opens in a new tab).
Well prepared for any emergency
In Germany, many institutions are ready to help in a wide variety of emergency situations - fire departments, police, rescue services, technical relief organizations and the German Armed Forces. But even the best help is not always available immediately. And in the event of a large-scale disaster, the emergency services cannot be everywhere at once.
Knowledge protects: Those who take precautions are on the safe side in an emergency and can help themselves, their relatives and neighbors. A great deal can be achieved with little effort and at little cost by taking precautions yourself. As a general rule, even a small stockpile, for example for three days, is better than no stockpile.
Checklists for personal provision
The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (opens in a new tab) provides detailed information on its website on how everyone can prepare for various crises. Topics include stocking up on food, setting up a first-aid kit, securing important documents and preparing emergency luggage. Checklists help with planning and preparing for an emergency.
