On September 14, German authorities have announced their plans to conduct a nationwide emergency alarm system test. This initiative, jointly led by the German Interior Ministry and the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK), aims to alert German citizens about impending emergencies. The warning is scheduled for 11 a.m. (0900 GMT) and will utilize a variety of communication channels.
Julianne Seifert, a representative from the ministry, emphasized their intention to employ a diverse range of warning methods. These methods include broadcasting warning messages via radio, television, and mobile phones through specialized apps like Nina. In addition, sirens and information boards situated in cities will be activated, transmitting alerts at public transit locations and within trains. BBK President Ralph Tiesler anticipates that the alert will be quite prominent, stating, “It’s going to be loud.”
This nationwide test is a response to the need for improved communication with the population in the event of an emergency, particularly following the tragic flash floods that struck Germany’s western regions during the summer of 2021. In the most recent test held last December, approximately nine out of ten Germans received emergency notifications through various means.
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