German Federal Office of Civil Protection publishes guide removing war as an 'unlikely' possibility

For the first time in 35 years, the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) is warning of war. The agency emphasises that Germany is one of the safest countries, but a new guide has been published to provide advice in case of crisis.

In light of Russia's almost four-year war on Ukraine, and the threat the Kremlin continues to post on European security, the BBK was prompted to make specific updates to its recommendations, after many citizens expressed concerns about war to the agency.

"It always pays off to be well prepared in advance," explains Ralph Tiesler, President of the BBK.

The new guide, titled "Preparing for Crises and Disasters", includes how to recognise disinformation and where to find shelter during explosions or other attacks on urban areas. It also addresses how to cope with fears and worries in extreme situations.

Natural disasters, technical failures, and now... war

Since the first guide published back in 1990, military scenarios have not been mentioned in these booklets. The focus was for the most part on natural disasters and technical failures, such as the recent incident in Spain and Portugal last April, where a power grid malfunction left millions across the Iberian Peninsula without power.

Now, for the first time, hybrid threats are also specifically mentioned: cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure, disinformation strategies, sabotage, and war.

"We are experiencing a global situation that worries many," says Tiesler. "With our new guide, we want to offer support and guidance where people are concerned or need information."

The explicit mention of a possible war is partly due to the debate on conscription and the use of drones.

But, even the head of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND), Martin Jäger, warned that the possibility of war, is not all that far-fetched.

"We are already in the line of fire, one must not relax," warned the BND President, whose previous post was German Ambassador to Ukraine.

Euronews has reviewed the 36-page guide by the BBK.

How realistic is it to stock up for three to ten days in a multi-person household in a small space?

It's not just about the available space; the costs can also be a barrier depending on the household and its needs.

How practical are the tips regarding space, costs, and durability?

The new BBK crisis guide put to the test

"Every household should be prepared to be self-sufficient for three to ten days," detailed Tiesler.

He also acknowledged that conditions are not the same for all families, couples, or households. "It's important to say that there are no fixed rules for emergency preparedness; everyone must decide for themselves individually."

A survey by the agencyrevealed that 53% of respondents in Germany had not made any emergency preparations.

"Every small step in preparation is better than none at all," said Tiesler. "These many small steps ensure that you are not powerless in a crisis, but can act," he added.

The guide tries to lay a foundation to help German households with their emergency preparedness. The new report comes equipped with a checklist, which consumers can jot down their own supplies and calculate the amount they would actually need in emergency situations.

If a family of four wants to prepare optimally, following the ten-day stockpiles recommendation, it quickly becomes clear that it is not just a question of cost but also one of space.

Water alone takes up space for eight crates, plus 20 large cans of vegetables (800 grams each), 12 for fruit, 7-9 tetra packs of milk depending on cheese needs. At least one bottle of oil adds another litre, and eggs and sausage also require space.

You can count on at least one, if not several, additional shelf spaces besides the water. Depending on shopping options, the cost is expected to be between 200-300 euros.

The solution the BBK came up with was to aim to have a "living supply".

Instead of hoarding canned food, it should be integrated into a normal consumption cycle. Newly purchased products move to the back of the shelf, and older ones with a sooner expiration date, are consumed first.

"Add one or two extra products to your shopping next time, like pasta or canned goods. Do this several times, and you will have a supply for several days," said the BBK chief.

It also doesn't hurt to check the current home pharmacy to have important medications available for several days or to buy new ones dedicated for emergency situations.

A warning app is also recommended to obtain information at the right time. The Federal Office also points out that power can fail; in this case, information must be obtained in other ways.

Therefore, a crank or solar-powered flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and a camping or spirit stove are also useful.