New disaster control lighthouses in Prenzlau: Ready for an emergency!

New disaster control lighthouses in Prenzlau: Ready for an emergency!

There is exciting news in the area of ​​disaster control in Prenzlau. The city is receiving two new disaster control lighthouses (KatS-Lt) to increase the safety of its citizens. The comprehensive expansion will be implemented as part of the Brandenburg package 2023/24, which includes not only emergency generators, but also tents and modern communication technology. These measures are part of a nationwide funding program that aims to support the municipalities in Brandenburg with their civil and disaster protection. According to that Northern Courier The Uckerseehalle and the gymnasium of the Grabowschule were identified as possible locations.

The spatial situation at the intended locations is currently a challenge because there is a lack of space to accommodate the devices and equipment. For this reason, temporary solutions must be found for two mobile emergency power generators. The management of operation and maintenance as well as the annual inspection of the electrical engineering will become a central task for the municipality. The use of the new technology is also regulated by a ten-year earmark, which ensures proper handling.

Strong together – Citizens are in demand

In addition to the professional rescue workers, the city should also actively involve the population in disaster protection. The aim is to recruit spontaneous helpers from the population in order to quickly set up and operate the KatS lighthouses in an emergency. The Uckermark district emphasizes the need for citizens to not only rely on the fire department and the technical relief organization. In order to be well prepared, one or two exercises to commission the disaster towers are urgently needed every year.

Dr. Andreas Heinrich emphasizes that the new equipment is of great importance for civil protection. However, it makes clear that full protection cannot be guaranteed by public bodies alone; Individual precautions and personal responsibility on the part of citizens are essential. This is more important than ever, especially given current challenges such as extreme weather events and energy outages.

Climate change and new challenges

Today, disaster preparedness is heavily influenced by climate change. The increase in extreme weather has become an everyday reality. The Environmental Association warns that global changes are constantly increasing the demands on disaster management. The focus is on protecting critical infrastructure, such as water and energy supplies.

At the political level, it is recognized that lower civil protection authorities are often unable to deal with all threats on their own. The Brandenburg package therefore envisages a volume of measures of over 15 million euros in 2024. New camp categories are to be formed that address different risk and threat scenarios and thus ensure support for the population.

In summary, it can be said that the city of Prenzlau is taking a step in the right direction with the new disaster prevention lighthouses. Greater involvement of citizens and adaptation to climatic changes are key to effective civil protection in the future. What is it called? “Together we achieve more!”