Civil protection is the task of the federal states to protect the population from major disasters and catastrophes in times of crisis. For example, disaster control takes action in the event of severe flooding or storms. In order to ensure this assistance, citizens can turn to the municipalities, districts and independent cities at any time and receive help from the police, fire departments and regulatory authorities. In addition, voluntary aid organizations such as the Workers' Samaritan Federation, the DLRG or the German Red Cross are obliged to participate in disaster control.
The civil protection of the federal states is closely linked to the civil protection of the federal government, which is available for war-related dangers. The federal resources and facilities used or prepared for this purpose are available to the federal states as so-called disaster relief in accordance with the Disaster Control Act. The federal government therefore provides its equipment for disaster control, for example for fire protection, NBC reconnaissance and medical services. This can include mobile base stations, Bundeswehr containers and much more. The federal government also offers basic and advanced training or supplies important data. In return, the federal government may also use the forces and capabilities of the various state organizations for civil protection in accordance with the Civil Protection and Disaster Control Act. This integrated assistance system consisting of civil protection and disaster control is intended to ensure the greatest possible safety for the population.
