Cologne in alarm mode: Now pack your emergency backpack!

Cologne in alarm mode: Now pack your emergency backpack!

Köln, Deutschland - in Cologne today, on June 4, 2025, the city came to a standstill due to a bombing. The responsible authorities have called on the residents to prepare for possible evacuations. This goes hand in hand with the recommendation of the Federal Office for Population Protection and Disaster Aid (BBK) to pack an emergency backpack. Experts emphasize that the backpack offers practical advantages over conventional luggage, especially in crisis situations.

But what actually belongs in such an emergency backpack? The BBK checklist is clear: in the first place there are personal medication and a sufficient amount of water and food that is sufficient for at least two days. In addition, first aid material, cash, keys, a pocket knife and a flashlight should not be missing. Hygiene measures are also important - protective masks and gloves should be packed. A detailed overview is available on the homepage of the bbk

preparations for emergencies

The need to put together an emergency backpack is becoming increasingly pressing. Events such as heavy rain, which led to falling floods in 2021, as well as the continuing challenges of Corona pandemic, show how quickly help is no longer available immediately. Many people had to leave their apartments in the past, such as during the floods or at the "Friederike" hurricane in 2018, which caused great damage.

The emergency backpack should include between 30 and 50 liters of volume, whereby the weight ideally should not exceed 10-20 % of your own body weight. It is advisable that every family member has their own backpack in order to be able to react more flexibly. Furthermore, the content should be individually tailored to personal needs and possible crisis scenarios. This also includes the inclusion of children in the planning to ensure that nothing important is forgotten.

important recommendations for the content

The following items are essential for a well -equipped backpack:

• first aid set
• water and durable foods
• sleeping bag or ceiling
• hygiene article
• multitool or other useful tools

The official recommendation of the BBK to prepare for emergencies clearly shows that we are all responsibility, not only for ourselves, but also for our neighbors. Preparations can often be made about life and death in critical times if government aid is not immediately available.

For further information on emergency provision and tips for packing an emergency backpack, we recommend the website Preliminary Listen.de . Here you will also find current update and helpful advice on crisis provision.