When people think about making preparations, they think about things you need to have in the house, or arrangements you need to make. But it is also important to talk to each other. People may feel uncertain or anxious about a possible emergency situation. Or they may need help to prepare.
Talking helps you feel calmer. Talking to each other makes you feel less alone. You hear how others are going about it and you can help each other. Perhaps you know someone who hasn’t given it any thought and you can help them get started. Or perhaps you are worried and it would help to have someone talk you through it. You may also know someone who already has experience of making preparations. That can help you make a start yourself.
Starting the conversation about preparing for an emergency can be awkward. We understand that. After all, you don't know how the other person is going to react. Still, more people are making preparations than you might think. Discuss this booklet with your neighbours, at school or at your sports club and ask what others are already doing to prepare. Also find out whether your municipality holds meetings where you can share experiences or ask questions.
Conversation
Below are five questions you can use to start a conversation with others:
- Do you ever worry about an emergency situation in the Netherlands?
- Have you already made preparations for an emergency?
- Who do we know that would need extra help during an emergency?
- Who else do we need to talk to in order to be better prepared together?
- What can we do right now to be better prepared together