Nationwide warning day: How to prepare for emergencies!

Nationwide warning day: How to prepare for emergencies!

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, a nationwide test run of the warning systems will be carried out Nationwide warning day is known. From 11 a.m. the test warning will be triggered via the “Cell Broadcast” system before the all-clear is given at 11:45 a.m. This is the fifth time this important event has been held, which aims to prepare the population for crises and disasters.

The initiative is organized by the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) in cooperation with the interior ministries of the federal states and the disaster control authorities of the municipalities. The warning methods are varied: cell phones in danger areas receive warning messages, sirens sound with a rising and falling howling tone, and warning apps such as Nina, radio, television, digital display boards and social media are also used. It is important to note that this is a test and does not pose any actual danger.

Focus on schools and disaster relief beacons

Particularly in the Prignitz district, the focus is on alerting schools. In Neuruppin, the disaster control lighthouse at the Karl-Friedrich-Schinkel-Gymnasium is open from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and during Trial and information days in the New Freyenstein Castle from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Such disaster prevention lighthouses not only offer protection, but also first aid, drinking water and communication options. There are a total of 18 of these lighthouses in the Ostprignitz-Ruppin district, of which Neuruppin has three.

In recent years the focus on civil protection has increased. Against the background of storms, wars and other crises, emphasized Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius that Germany must be “war-ready” in five years. Billions of euros are being invested in defense for this purpose. However, there is a significant shortage of functioning sirens that should be used to warn the public. Many warning systems were dismantled after the Cold War, and in Berlin in particular, only around 50 percent of the planned 450 sirens are operational.

Prepare for emergencies

As part of these developments, the BBK offers numerous recommendations to better protect citizens in emergencies. This includes stocking up on supplies for ten days, which should include water, light sources, food and essential medications. Cash should also be kept on hand in order to be able to react better to unforeseen situations. EHSH courses (first aid with self-protection content) are also intended to promote self-help among the population, although their future is uncertain given the challenges.

These measures to increase security and prepare for crises are crucial to increasing public trust in the warning systems and ensuring that everyone is well informed and prepared in the event of an emergency.