Prepared together for every emergency
Public authorities and emergency services do their best to prepare. They take preventive measures, develop emergency plans and conduct drill exercises. However, during an emergency, they cannot always help everyone at the same time. By preparing ourselves, we become more resilient, and the emergency services can focus on the most vulnerable people and those in urgent need of assistance.
That is why it is important that you prepare yourself as well. By taking a few steps in advance, you will be able to react more quickly and appropriately when an emergency arises. You can do this on your own, but also with your family, neighbours and friends.
Being prepared is a collective effort.
What can you do?
You can prepare yourself better by following a few simple steps:
- Learn about the risks in your neighbourhood.
- Know where to find reliable and accurate information.
- Prepare an emergency plan for your family or household.
- Put together an emergency kit.
- Make sure you know what to do if you need to take shelter or evacuate.
When taking these steps, also consider the people around you:
- Talk to your family, neighbours or friends about what you can do in an emergency.
- Share your knowledge, make decisions together and help each other prepare an emergency plan or an emergency kit.
- Also keep in mind vulnerable people who may need assistance in an emergency, such as those with reduced mobility, children or people with disabilities.
Good preparation starts with the right information
It is essential to have access to reliable and accurate information before, during and after an emergency. This will ensure you know what is happening and how you can protect yourself and others. Make sure you know where to find this information.
The authorities and emergency services provide information through their official channels. They usually use several channels at the same time.
By following the three steps below, you will be better informed in the event of an emergency:
1. Sign up to BE-Alert
BE-Alert is the public authorities’ alert system. In the event of an emergency in your area, you can receive a message via:
- Text message (from the number 1789)
- Voice call
Depending on the situation, the authorities may also send a message to everyone located in a specific area. In this case, you may receive a message even if you are not registered.
Sign up for BE-Alert today.
2. Follow the channels of your municipality and local emergency services
In the event of a local emergency, your municipality, province, local police or fire service will communicate via their :
- Websites
- Social media channels
Follow and subscribe to these channels today.
Read more tips here on how to find the communication channels of your municipality or local emergency services
3. Stay informed via crisiscenter.be
On this website, you will find:
- Information about possible risks in Belgium
- Tips to help you be better prepared
- In the event a major emergency, you will also find the latest updates and official instructions there.
Add this website to your favourites. That way, you can find it quickly.
Additional information channels
Authorities sometimes also rely on other means to quickly reach a large audience, such as:
- Radio and television
- Online media
- Information boards, flyers or police vehicles fitted with loudspeakers
Check out this page to find out more about the best way to prepare for emergencies.