After a fire at a substation, around 40,000 people in Reutlingen were temporarily without power. Earlier this year, 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses in Berlin lost not only electricity but also heating, internet, and mobile service. Such events are putting the spotlight on crisis preparedness.
Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt presented the Pact for Civil Protection in May to better equip Germany for crises, disasters, and conflicts. Plans include special vehicles, thousands of camp beds, and a medical task force. Aid organizations are already rehearsing emergency scenarios with hundreds of participants. One district is distributing brochures titled: What to Do in a Crisis?
Die Zeit quotes experts who recommend a small emergency supply: It is not enough for the apocalypse, but it helps during blackouts, floods, or other crises. Everyone should store some water and a few cans – that is the first step toward personal preparedness.
Source: www.zeit.de
