READING MATERIAL: Time for civil defense

When an accident or catastrophe occurs, rescue services need time to reach the scene and provide assistance. In the case of an accident or fire, this is usually only a few minutes, but in the case of a catastrophe, it can take significantly longer for rescue services to arrive.

Possible emergency situations include accidents and fires as well as the disruption of services or preparation for special risks. These could occur during severe storms, snow catastrophes, or large-scale floods, as well as in the event of the release of chemical (C), biological (B), radiological (R) or nuclear (N) hazardous substances (CBRN hazards). In such events, it is important for citizens to be able to help themselves until organized assistance arrives. The guide provides information and behavior tips for a variety of emergency situations. Some of the topics include:

• Personal emergency preparedness
• Emergency call
• Structural safety
• Storms
• Fire
• Floods
• CBRN hazards

The guide "Catastrophe Alarm" from the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance provides information on what is important for preparing for such emergency situations.

On 68 pages, hints and information on personal emergency preparedness are presented in a clear and very illustrative form. Download here: Guide for Emergency Preparedness and Proper Action in Emergency Situations (PDF, 9MB)