Plön-Ostholstein: New emergency network protects cultural assets from disasters!

Plön-Ostholstein: New emergency network protects cultural assets from disasters!

In a significant initiative, seven institutions from the Plön-Ostholstein region have founded an emergency network to protect cultural assets from dangers such as extreme weather and fires. The association was created on July 17, 2025 and brings together, among other things, the Eutin City Archives, the Ostholstein Cultural Foundation and Eutin Castle. The signatories of the founding agreement are Jakobsperrle, Anja Sierks-Pfaff, Björn Demmin, Bettina Schäfer, Brigitta Herrmann and Sven Reiß. Together they send a strong signal for the preservation and protection of cultural treasures in the region, such as District newspaper reported.

The merger itself is the fourth of a total of nine planned emergency networks in Schleswig-Holstein. Not only emergency and evacuation plans are planned, but also the purchase of special emergency materials. The so-called emergency box is particularly important. This is equipped with important materials for immediate assistance in the event of damage to cultural assets. The contents include tools for saving paper, cleaning products, self-protection materials and an emergency generator. Those responsible are aware of the need to clarify freezing and alternative options for cultural assets. Discussions are therefore already underway with the Northern Church about using church buildings as interim depots.

Cooperation and support

The commitment in the emergency network is not only driven by the institutions involved, but also through close cooperation with various authorities. For example, discussions are ongoing with the “blue lights” of civil protection, the fire brigade and the police. These partners bring valuable knowledge to further develop the planning of prevention measures. The Oldenburg emergency association can serve as a role model here because they benefit from support from the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), which not only provides technical support, but also logistical and personnel support.

The overarching goal of the emergency network is clear: to secure cultural assets in order to avoid damage and to preserve the cultural identity of the region even in crisis situations. Those responsible know that every institution has its own special challenges when it comes to protecting cultural treasures. The need was therefore recognized to coordinate interdisciplinary and interdepartmental measures in order to be able to respond to disruptions caused by various threats, such as the platform for Crisis management in the protection of cultural property emphasized.

A step into the future

The establishment of the Plön-Ostholstein Emergency Network is more than just insurance against disasters. It is an important step towards the sensitive and responsible preservation of our shared cultural assets. The members accept the challenge and show that they have a “good hand” for protecting cultural heritage. With the focus on solidarity support and joint precautions, a strong foundation is laid for the future.