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Notification of more than 200 alarms during National Alert Day

Alarm Sounds in Berlin After Decades: Disaster Protection Sirens Warning Residents as Posters Say, 'Sirens Save Lives, They're Your Wake-up Call for Safety.'

Hundreds of alarm systems are set to ring on National Alarm Day
Hundreds of alarm systems are set to ring on National Alarm Day

Notification of more than 200 alarms during National Alert Day

In a significant development, the Blue Light Festival will take place on Sunday at the German Museum of Technology, marking a new era in the city's civil defense preparations. This year's theme for the festival is Heat.

The festival comes amidst a changing security landscape, with factors such as climate change, cyber attacks, and the current world situation necessitating a shift in the city's emergency response strategies.

One of the most notable changes is the reinstallation of sirens in Berlin, a move that was initially implemented mainly on rooftops in densely populated areas and tourist locations. These sirens, which can reach decibel levels of at least 130 (some even reaching 140, comparable to aircraft engines), will serve as an urgent warning system in case of emergencies.

On September 11th at 11:00 AM, a loud, rising and falling tone will be heard for one minute from these warning sirens across the city. The all-clear will be given at 11:45 AM with a one-minute steady tone.

The Senate Department for the Interior has taken the lead in this initiative, with the Senate Secretary assigned to internal affairs in the Senatsinnenministerium overseeing the close cooperation with the Bundeswehr regarding civil defense in case of wars.

In addition to the sirens, the Senate, police, and aid organizations will provide more detailed information on this topic at the Blue Light Festival. The federal government is expected to contribute a large part of the approximately 630 deployment vehicles needed for emergencies and special deployments.

While no specific reasons for the reinstallation of the sirens or the cooperation with the Bundeswehr were provided, it is clear that these measures are part of a broader effort to strengthen Berlin's emergency response capabilities and ensure the safety of its citizens.

As for the weather, scattered fog is expected Tuesday morning, with the probability of thunderstorms increasing in the west from Tuesday afternoon. However, no new information about the weather forecast beyond Tuesday was provided.

By the end of the year, 450 sirens should be active, with more than 100 added in the next two years. The sirens are powered by solar modules and batteries, making them environmentally friendly and efficient.

This marks a significant step forward in Berlin's emergency preparedness, and the Blue Light Festival offers an opportunity for citizens to learn more about these new measures and how they can contribute to their city's safety.

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