Well prepared in the event of a crisis
Crisis situations have increased significantly in recent years. We currently have a war in Europe. As a result, the reliable supply of gas and electricity is not guaranteed. The state government of North Rhine-Westphalia has therefore called on local authorities to prepare for a widespread power outage lasting at least three days. As reported, the town of Beckum has been working on an emergency plan for several months. The staff for extraordinary events (SAE) regularly discusses this.
Are you well prepared?
Even if the scenario is currently considered unlikely, it's not just the city that needs to be prepared. This also applies to the people of Beckum. Mayor Michael Gerdhenrich appeals "to all households to adapt their electricity and gas consumption to the circumstances and reduce it where it is easily possible." Just 1 degree less room temperature results in energy savings of 6 per cent. This is also worthwhile for your wallet.
Flyer from the town of Beckum provides an overview
"But are you also prepared if the power actually goes out due to a shortage, heating systems fail and mobile phones have no network? Do you know what to do for yourself and your loved ones? Have you made provisions for this eventuality and can you take care of yourself?" he asks in the foreword to a flyer that summarises the key information. The flyer provides an overview of the things you should have in your home in the event of a widespread power cut: from food to torches and batteries to a camping cooker. After all, it is unlikely that supermarkets or other shops will be able to sell their goods.
Fire brigade and police available on site around the clock
And where do you make emergency calls if neither your mobile nor landline phone is operational? The fire stations in the districts of Beckum, Neubeckum and Vellern and the police station take emergency calls on site around the clock. In addition, there will be 2 care points in Beckum and Neubeckum where you can warm up and recharge your batteries if necessary. A central info point will be set up in the town hall foyer in the event of such a scenario. Information on the current situation will also be available at the other contact points.
How can I help myself or offer help?
Private offers and requests for help can be posted on simple pinboards. These will be available at the following locations: Martinschule Beckum, the canteen building at Neubeckum comprehensive school, the Vellern fire station and the Roland community centre.
How will I be warned?
The population will be warned by sirens, announcements from fire engines and possibly by warning apps, although these may only work to a limited extent. Radio WAF and WDR broadcast up-to-date information in the event of a crisis.
The flyer will also soon be available in the Beckum town council offices. A joint information stand of the town of Beckum and the local DRK association in Beckum is planned for 14 January at the Beckum weekly market.
Where can I find more information?
Further information can be found on the special page of the town of Beckum and on the homepages of the district of Warendorf https://www.kreis-warendorf.de and the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance http://www.bbk.bund.de.