New warning phone for Northeim: Inform the round-the-clock!

New warning phone for Northeim: Inform the round-the-clock!

In the district of Northeim there is a new way to quickly find out about dangers in an emergency: a warning phone has been set up. This system enables citizens to call up important warning messages by phone if there is a risk. It is particularly important in situations in which there are major fires, severe storms or the release of hazardous substances.

District Administrator Astrid Klinkert-Kittel emphasizes the relevance of this measure: "We have recognized that older people or people in areas with weak network coverage often have difficulty getting current information about warning apps." In this context, it is particularly important that neighbors and relatives support these people by passing on information if they themselves have no internet access. "Our warning phone comes into play here. So those who cannot access modern technologies can always be informed about the current warnings," adds Klinkert-Kittel.

The functionality of the warning phone

The warning phone can be reached on 03221/555 0 222. It enables the callers to listen to the warning messages pronounced by the district around the clock. However, it is important to note that warnings that are issued by other authorities such as the German Weather Service cannot be found on this phone. The call costs are based exclusively on the prices of the respective telephone provider.

This step is part of a larger warning concept that the emergency services in the Northeim district developed. District fire chief Marko de Klein notes: "It is important to us, in every situation, be it when driving, picking up the children or at work.

The population can not only be informed about the new warning phone in an emergency. Rather, an entire portfolio of warning methods is available. This includes, for example, television and radiWarn messages, loudspeaker announcements, the use of warning apps such as Nina, Biwapp and Katwarn as well as information about social media. A warning about WhatsApp is also conceivable, as is the triggering of sirens to draw the citizens aware of dangers.

variety of warning agents

Konstantin Mennecke, the train driver of the train for population warning and public relations of the district fire brigade, emphasizes that the goal of a so -called warning mix is to reach all citizens at least via one of these channels. "We want to ensure that people are informed about the situation in good time and know what measures they should take," explains Mennecke.

The introduction of the warning phone thus represents a decisive component to improve security and information availability in the district of Northeim. This measure not only increases accessibility, but also raises awareness of the need for a well -functioning warning system. In critical moments, it is of the utmost importance that the population is quickly and comprehensively informed in order to be able to react appropriately.

Through this innovative approach, the district of Northeim shows how modern technology in connection with proven communication traditions can support people in difficult times. In a world in which the quality of the information is often crucial for security, the district does not stop, but develops continuously.

The introduction of warning systems is not only of great importance, but also at national level. In Germany there are already several legal regulations that regulate the organization and implementation of warnings in the event of a disaster. The federal structure of the country means that each state has implemented its own programs for disaster warning, which are often continued by the respective counties. The Federal Office for Population Protection and Disaster Aid (BBK) plays a central role in that it offers standards and guidelines for the various warning systems and offers schools for continuous training of emergency services.

In Germany, warning apps such as Nina (emergency information and news calculation system) and Katwarn are central instruments to inform the population in emergencies. These apps not only allow it to receive warning messages in real time, but also offer specific information about danger sites in the immediate vicinity of the users. During Corona pandemic, the use and acceptance of such warning systems have increased significantly, which may contribute to the fact that people can also be better achieved in endangered areas.

The role of social media

In addition to traditional warning methods, social media play an increasing role in population protection communication. With platforms such as Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, authorities can spread information quickly and efficiently.

With the use of these channels, a younger target group can be addressed in a way that may not be possible with traditional methods. The district of Northeim has recognized this trend and is already using social media to spread information in order not only to warn the population about dangers, but also to give instructions on hazard defense.

statistical surveys to warning systems

According to a survey by the Federal Office for Population Protection and disaster relief from 2021, over 70% of the respondents had already heard of a warning app. Almost 30% stated to actively use such an app. This shows that awareness of warning systems and their importance has increased among the population, which supports the effectiveness of these means of communication in crisis situations. In addition, the survey found that the majority of the respondents consider a higher implementation of warning measures to be necessary, especially in rural areas where the infrastructure and the digital range can be restricted.

The importance of a comprehensive warning system is therefore underpinned not only by local initiatives, but also by nationwide statistics. The state and federal authorities are therefore increasingly committed to further optimizing warning systems in order to ensure the safety of all citizens.