Stuttgart (dpa / lsw) - The German Red Cross (DRK) is in favor of a joint competence center for aid organizations and authorities in order to be able to better coordinate operations in the event of a crisis. DRK President Barbara Bosch said in Stuttgart on Wednesday that it was a joint task for the state and the aid organizations to further develop civil protection in the country. This must become more flexible and adapt to dynamic developments.
Among other things, Bosch referred to the flood disaster in the Ahr Valley. "Measures that were appropriate ten years ago must be put to the test and readjusted." The communication structures between the various organizations and government agencies must be strengthened. "The crises in the country will not decrease," said the head of over 30,000 volunteers in the southwest.
The DRK again called for better financial resources for civil protection in the state. The financing must be fully taken over by the state, said the state director of the readiness, Jürgen Wiesbeck. Disaster control has been financially neglected in recent years. The state pays 130 euros to the organization for everyone per year and helper. The DRK official calculated that the personal protective equipment alone cost around 1,200 euros. Bosch also pointed out that some of the emergency vehicles were getting old. A quick replacement is necessary.
