New digital sirens in Bad Kreuznach: Warning day causes excitement!

New digital sirens in Bad Kreuznach: Warning day causes excitement!

Today, on September 11, 2025, the population in Cologne and beyond will be sensitized to alerting in an emergency with an impressive test of the nationwide warning day. The Bad Kreuznach district has installed almost 200 new digital sirens, which were put into operation for the first time today. These modern high-performance sirens, which emit louder signals than traditional sirens, also have an attached battery system to remain functional even during power outages. At 11 a.m., a one-minute, rising and falling warning tone sounded throughout Germany, which serves as a signal for acute dangers, such as storms or major fires. There were minor breakdowns in Rheinhessen, which were quickly remedied by those responsible. SWR reports that every citizen was asked to use the radio, internet or warning apps to obtain further information. Windows and doors should remain closed and neighbors who do not hear the signal should be informed.

That's not enough! One of the highlights of the day followed at 11:45 a.m.: a one-minute continuous tone sounded as the all-clear. The special signal for firefighters, which consists of three short continuous tones, was also tested. Tagesschau emphasizes that the warning day, which was held in Germany for the fifth time, not only gives the population an understanding of the functionality of the systems, but also points out weak points.

A strong network for disaster protection

As part of this multifaceted test, alternative alerting methods were also of great importance: official test warnings were distributed via digital display boards, television channels and radio stations. Deutsche Bahn and various local transport companies were also integrated into the warning. The aim of the warning day is to make the population aware of the official alerts and to react quickly in an emergency. In addition, the innovative Automatic Safety Alert (ASA) technology was tested for the first time today, which sends information to DAB+-capable devices even in the event of a failure of mobile networks and the Internet. Spiegel reports that many regions have modernized their siren systems in recent years, which represents a crucial step in disaster preparedness.

Another highlight of today's warning day is the survey launched at the same time by the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief. The survey is intended to capture citizens' impressions and collect any suggestions for improvement. The anonymous results will be published next spring. This feedback is particularly important in order to further optimize the alarm structures and prepare the population as best as possible for possible emergencies.

In today's fast-paced world, it is essential that people are well informed and know how to respond in an emergency. Constant practice, as the warning day makes possible, brings a good deal of security not only to the authorities, but also to the population. We are looking forward to the reactions that the Bad Kreuznach district media team will gather on social media. Together we help ensure that we are prepared for the future.