The Dutch government sends an emergency guide to 8.5 million homes
The Dutch government will send a booklet titled 'Prepare for Emergencies' to every household in the country starting next week, reaching 8.5 million homes. The guide aims to raise awareness about crises such as floods, war, and cyber attacks.
The booklet consists of 33 pages and will be delivered between November 25 and January 10. It provides practical advice for managing the first 72 hours of any major incident, explaining steps to maintain safety, secure supplies, and stay informed of developments.
The booklet warns that a successful attack on the power grid could prevent people from contacting family, shut down gas stations, lead to shortages of goods in stores, and halt fresh water supplies. It advises keeping essentials like candles, blankets, and a hand-crank radio to receive the latest updates.
Every household is urged to stock emergency supplies, create a plan for who will take care of the children or check on relatives, and discuss preparations with neighbors. The booklet reaffirms the previous government's call to secure supplies sufficient for 72 hours.
Acting Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans confirmed that the aim of the guide is to build resilience, not to instill fear. The booklet will also be available online starting November 25 in several languages, including English, French, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish.