THW Ostfildern inaugurated: Strong protection for times of crisis!

THW Ostfildern inaugurated: Strong protection for times of crisis!

On July 8, 2025, the new location of the Technical Relief Agency (THW) Ostfildern was ceremoniously inaugurated. Previously, the local association was forced to live in temporary accommodation, but with the new, spacious building, the volunteers are now well equipped to act quickly in crisis situations. In his speech, Dierk Hansen, Vice President of the Federal Association, emphasized the growing importance of disaster control and warned that the population must also prepare for times of war and crisis. The new vehicle hall, which offers a span of an impressive 16.5 meters, is a central part of the new building and is intended to further improve the operational readiness of the helpers. This means that the Ostfildern local association is well positioned.

The Ostfildern city administration has also prepared its people for potential crises by setting up an administrative staff. This is made up of members from all specialist departments and comes together in the event of major damage events. Not only floods and heavy rain are on the list of possible dangers, power outages are also taken into account in the planning. The protection of the population and a rapid and coordinated response are the staff's top goals. Workshops are also being held in collaboration with EnBW to refine internal processes and strengthen citizens' ability to help themselves.

Crisis preparedness at all levels

A central point for the city's information policy is the revision of the city's homepage. This will not only provide practical advice in the event of an emergency, but will also contain flood hazard maps to check risk areas. Rules of conduct such as sealing doors and windows and parking on hills are recommended to citizens. Self-precaution in the event of heavy rain is also actively discussed, for example by clearing out basements and using apps such as NINA and KATWARN, which provide current severe weather warnings.

The topic of crisis preparedness is becoming more and more important. This is also reflected in the introduction of the Food Security and Provision Act (ESA) in Germany. This law is intended to secure the population's food supply in the event of a supply crisis. If there is a serious threat to basic food needs, sovereign intervention may be necessary. The federal government has the opportunity to declare such a crisis and take appropriate measures.

Stockpiling is another important point, whereby the federal government can fall back on reserves from the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food in the event of a supply crisis. In an emergency, food such as rice, legumes and grains are available. Security authorities and civil protection agencies work hand in hand to ensure effective distribution. This is intended to ensure that the population remains well supplied, even if the supply chains should come to a standstill.

As Ostfildern and the federal government show, in times of crisis the responsibility lies with both the authorities and the citizens themselves. A little personal responsibility and preparation can help not to be left behind in an emergency. So it's time to actively address these issues!