The Federal Office of Civil Protection of Germany has released a new list of recommendations for supplies in case of war.
"Even war no longer seems so impossible as it did a few years ago," warns the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance of Germany. The agency recommends having supplies for three to ten days. Euronews conducted a practical check.
For the first time in 35 years, the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) is warning about war. The agency emphasizes that despite Germany being one of the safest countries, a new guide has been released for preparing for crisis situations.
The increased demand for information and recommendations on preparedness due to Russian aggression against Ukraine prompted the BBK to make specific changes to the guide. Many citizens have expressed concern to the agency about the possibility of war. "It is important to be well prepared in advance," explains Ralph Tiesler, president of the BBK.
The new guide, "Preparation for Crises and Disasters," now includes how to recognize misinformation and where to find shelter during bombings, as well as how to cope with fears and anxieties in extreme situations.
Natural Disasters, Technical Failures... Now War
Since the first guide was released in 1990, military scenarios have not been mentioned in these brochures. The focus has been on natural disasters, flood assistance, and technical failures, as seen in Spain and Portugal in April last year.
Now, for the first time, hybrid threats are specifically mentioned: cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, misinformation strategies, sabotage, and war.
"We live in a world that causes a lot of concern," said BBK president Ralph Tiesler. "With our new guide, we want to provide support and guidance for those who are worried or need information."
The explicit mention of a possible war is not least due to debates about conscription and the use of drones. But the head of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND), Martin Eger, also warns: "We are already in the line of fire." He emphasized that one cannot relax. Until recently, he was Germany's ambassador to Ukraine.
Euronews reviewed the new 36-page guide from the BBK. How realistic is it to stock up on provisions for three to ten days for a family of several people in a small space? But it is not only about available space; cost can also be a barrier, depending on the family and its needs.
How practical are the recommendations considering space, costs, and shelf life?
Practical Check of the New BBK Guide
"Every household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for three to ten days," explains president Tiesler. However, he also understands that conditions are not the same for all families, couples, or households. "It is important to note that there are no strict rules regarding emergency preparedness; everyone must determine their individual needs."
A survey by the agency also showed that 53% of respondents in Germany have not conducted targeted preparations. "It is better to take at least a small step than to do nothing," adds Tiesler. "These many small steps help manage crises rather than being in a helpless state."
Nevertheless, the guide tries to lay the groundwork. With the help of a checklist, consumers can check their supplies and calculate how much they really need.
If a family with two children wants to optimally prepare based on supplies for 10 days, it becomes clear that it is not only a matter of cost but also of space.
Just water will take up space for eight boxes, plus 20 large cans of vegetables (800 grams each), 12 cans of fruit, 7-9 packages of milk, depending on the need for cheese. At least one bottle of oil—another liter—and eggs and sausage require space. One can expect at least one, if not several additional shelves, in addition to space for water. Depending on the store, costs can range from 200 to 300 euros.
The BBK's solution is a "live supply." Instead of storing food in cans, it should be integrated into the regular diet. New products are placed at the back of the shelves, while older ones are moved to the front.
"When shopping next time, add one or two extra products, such as pasta or canned goods. Do this several times. And you will already have supplies for several days," recommends BBK president Tiesler. It is also worth checking the home first aid kit to have important medications for several days or to purchase new ones.
It is also recommended to install a warning app to receive timely information. The Federal Office also reminds that electricity may be cut off, in which case information will need to be obtained in other ways. Therefore, it is advisable to have a manual or solar flashlight, a battery-operated radio, as well as a camping or alcohol stove.
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