The world is changing rapidly. Geopolitical tensions, cyberattacks, and extreme weather increase the likelihood of emergencies. Do you know what to do if the power goes out or emergency services are overloaded?
This article from Forturus helps you to be self-reliant during the first 72 hours of a crisis. With practical steps and a clear overview, you are optimally prepared. Because in an emergency situation, every minute counts.
Why prepare for an emergency situation
The world around us has become more unpredictable. Consider the war in Ukraine, the constant threat of digital attacks on our vital infrastructure, and increasingly extreme weather such as severe storms and prolonged droughts. These factors significantly increase the likelihood of an unexpected emergency situation in the Netherlands.
The goal of prepping is to be self-reliant during the first 72 hours, or three days. Why exactly 72 hours? In a large-scale crisis, emergency services cannot be everywhere at once. Moreover, essential systems, such as power and water supply, can fail. The government needs this period to organize emergency relief and restore the infrastructure.
Scenario: what happens during a 72-hour power outage
A prolonged power outage is one of the most realistic emergency scenarios. The impact of this is much greater than many people realize. It goes beyond just a dark house; it affects virtually every aspect of our daily lives.
Immediately upon an outage, you lose power, heating, internet, and the functioning of elevators, public transport, and traffic lights. Card payments are not possible, and shops will close soon. After a few hours, water pressure decreases or even disappears completely, preventing toilets from flushing. Mobile phone batteries drain quickly. After 24 hours or longer, food products in refrigerators and freezers begin to spoil, and communication is barely possible. Unrest in society increases the longer the crisis drags on.
Impact of prolonged power outage
During such scenarios, it is crucial that you stay informed. The government will disseminate information about the situation and local emergency support points where residents can go for help via regional emergency radio and the NL-Alert system.
Preparation in three steps
Effective preparation doesn't have to be complicated. With these three steps, you ensure that you and your family are ready for unexpected situations. It is about creating a safety net, both material and social.
Step 1 Put together an emergency kit
A good emergency kit is your first line of defense. Gather all the necessities to last 72 hours and keep them in an easily accessible place. Also consider an evacuation bag , also known as a disaster backpack, in case you need to leave your home quickly.
- Water: At least 3 liters per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene.
- Food: Long-lasting products such as canned vegetables, canned meat, nuts, muesli bars, and dried fruit.
- Heat: Warm blankets, sleeping bags, and extra layers of clothing to prevent hypothermia.
- Light and Fire: A reliable flashlight with extra batteries, candles and matches, or a lighter.
- Communication: An emergency radio (battery-powered, solar-powered, or wind-up) tuned to the regional disaster channel and a charged power bank .
- Hygiene: Disinfectant gel, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary pads or tampons, and toothpaste with a toothbrush.
- Money and Documents: Cash (recommended: €70 per adult, €30 per child for 72 hours), copies of identification documents, a paper map of the area, and a list of important telephone numbers.
- Safety and Tools: A complete first aid kit , a whistle to attract attention, basic tools such as a hammer, saw, and pliers, and spare keys for home and car.
- Specifically: Any prescription medication, baby food, and pet supplies.
Check the contents of your emergency kit and evacuation gear every six months for expiration dates and functionality. Replace expired items and recharge batteries.
Step 2 Create an emergency plan
An emergency plan provides calm and clarity in stressful situations. Discuss with housemates and loved ones what to do if phone and internet connections fail. Make a paper version of this and keep it in a central location.
- Picking up children: Who picks up the children from school or daycare if there is a crisis and communication breaks down?
- Evacuation: How do you leave the house, especially if elevators are not working? Know alternative routes.
- Meeting place: Where do you meet if you can't call or text each other? Choose a primary and a secondary location.
- Care: How is medical care or home care arranged when regular services are limited?
- Emergency contacts: Gather contact details of family, friends, or neighbors you can turn to.
Step 3 Social preparation
In an emergency situation, you are stronger together. Discuss your preparations with neighbors, family, and friends. By knowing each other and being aware of each other's strengths, you can support one another.
- People in need of assistance: Identify who in the area needs extra help, such as the elderly or people with mobility issues.
- Skills: Agree on who is good at what. Who has first aid knowledge? Who has handy tools or specific aids?
The role of the government in disasters
In addition to your own preparations, the government plays an essential role in prevention and protection. Continuous investments are made in defense, the safeguarding of vital infrastructure (such as electricity, internet, and gas), and international cooperation within NATO and the EU to ensure security.
In an emergency, the government warns you via various channels:
- NL-Alert: A message on your mobile phone in case of immediate danger, even if the network is overloaded.
- Siren (Air raid siren): Upon hearing the siren, go inside, close your windows and doors, and turn on your radio or TV for more information.
- Emergency broadcaster: In the event of a power outage, the regional radio frequency is the primary source of information. Ensure you have an emergency radio that can be tuned to this.
- Emergency Support Points: Municipalities set up local points where residents can go for information, drinking water, and basic necessities during prolonged crises.
Reliable sources of information and tips
In times of crisis, it is crucial to be able to distinguish reliable information from fake news. Always consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date updates.
- Reliable sources: Rijksoverheid.nl, Nederlandveilig.nl, Denkvooruit.nl, and the websites of your municipality or safety region.
- Disinformation: Be extra vigilant about fake news on social media. Always check the source and verify the information through multiple official channels.
There are also useful tools available that can help you with preparation and during an emergency situation:
- Red Cross First Aid app: This app also works offline and provides quick access to important first aid instructions.
- Set up an emergency contact: You can learn how to set up an emergency contact on your phone via www.eerstehulpbenjij.nl.
- Preparing pets: Go to www.diereninrampen.nl for tips on how to prepare your pets for an emergency situation.
Prevention is better than cure, and preparation is prevention. Start building your emergency kit and emergency plan today, so you can face an uncertain future with confidence. Do you have questions or would you like to know more about our products? Please feel free to contact us.
