Uwe Krischer, the North Rhine‑Westphalia state commissioner of the German Red Cross for population protection, warns that despite the serious security situation, many people are not prepared for war or other major crises. He calls for adults, children and young people to be trained for real‑life emergencies.
In first‑aid courses for driving licences and in school resuscitation lessons, self‑protection should also be taught-covering personal preparedness with supplies, emergency kits, and first‑aid for gunshot wounds and other war injuries, Krischer told the “Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung”. “The topic belongs in kindergartens already” he added. “Kindergarten children can learn playfully how to place an emergency call and tie a bandage. All kindergarten and school children in North Rhine‑Westphalia should be required to learn self‑protection”.
Krischer further explained to the “WAZ” that in a serious crisis people will have to help themselves. “Many have not internalised this yet. They think that if they feel unwell, they can just call 112 and someone will come. But in a defensive situation, perhaps no one will arrive” he said.