Rising tensions in Europe caused by war in Ukraine, is causing a number of European countries to review their strategies for civil protection and emergency preparedness, Focus reports. Germany, Sweden, Finland and Norway are already taking serious steps to improve public preparedness for potential military conflicts and other crises, reports the British newspaper The Guardian.
Germany is actively developing an app to help citizens find nearby bunkers in the event of an attack. Although the country has fewer than 600 public bomb shelters capable of sheltering around 480,000 people, the new national plan includes building additional shelters and adapting existing facilities, such as subways and basements. In addition, new homes will be legally required to include safe havens.
Sweden, for its part, has distributed a pamphlet titled "In case of crisis or war," which describes important survival steps such as warning systems, water and food supplies, warm clothing and battery operated radios. The authorities strongly remind that in the event of an attack, every citizen must contribute to the defense of the country.
Finland has created a special website, 72tuntia.fi, which provides guidance on how to prepare citizens for various emergencies, including water cuts and forest fires. The popularity of military training courses and the demand for battery-powered radios in the country are growing as citizens feel a growing need for preparedness.
Norway is also distributing civil defense leaflets to 2.6 million households, recommending weekly supplies of non-perishable food, iodine tablets and cash. In addition, emphasis is placed on digital security and protection from information threats.
Measures by these countries to increase preparedness have been met with mixed reactions. While some citizens support the initiatives and stock up on provisions, others express concern about low public awareness and economic difficulties that may hinder the implementation of the recommendations.
However, experts stress that the risk of conflict in Europe remains high, and the membership of Finland and Sweden in NATO, strengthened defenses and increased civilian preparedness reflect the seriousness of threat perceptions in the region.