The scenario: The power is off, not just for a few hours, but for a longer period of time. As a result, the heating would fail in most buildings, there was no drinking water in the kitchen and toilet, the light didn’t work anyway, neither did the television or radio, and it wasn’t possible to charge cell phones. The supermarket checkout doesn’t work, nor does the ATM. According to most experts, the probability of such a blackout, i.e. a longer power failure, occurring in the Munich region is very low; but it is not impossible. The municipality of Unterföhring has therefore prepared itself for the worst case scenario and calls on its citizens to take precautions.
Anyone who can help themselves to a certain extent in an extraordinary situation and maybe even take care of the neighbors is also keeping their backs free for emergency services to support the weakest and those most in need, argued Unterföhring’s Mayor Andreas Kemmelmeyer (PWU) at the citizens’ meeting on Thursday evening. Together with the local volunteer fire brigade, the community has drawn up an emergency plan. Among other things, this stipulates that in the event of a lengthy power failure, a crisis management team consisting of administrative staff, the fire brigade and other responsible persons will meet. If necessary, this will install three central contact points for the population in Unterföhring: in the community center, on the turning hammer of Ahornstraße and in front of the children’s home at Straßäckerallee 13. People can get up-to-date information, advice and help at these so-called “lighthouses”. In the event of a blackout, the fire brigade will use mobile loudspeaker announcements to announce when the contact points will be put into operation.
In order to take precautions yourself, Mayor Kemmelmeyer advises not to hoard, but to stock up on perishable food and drinking water. A flashlight, candles, matches, warm clothing and blankets, a well-stocked medicine chest and a supply of cash are also advisable. One of the most important things, however, is to consider with neighbors and acquaintances who needs care and who can offer what support. “There is absolutely no reason to get hectic or worried,” says Kemmelmeyer, who refers to the tried-and-tested network of helpers from the fire brigade and district units. But if you are prepared and informed, you can get through a possible exceptional situation more relaxed.
More information on preparing for emergencies and disasters is available from the Municipality of Unterfoehring and the Munich District Office.