But part of the panel thinks the attention to emergency situations is exaggerated or even calls it ‘fear-mongering’. Fred Schuurmans from Alkmaar says: “I want to be careful not to get into a kind of panic mood, because a terrible disaster might happen one day. I prefer to stick to the idea that disasters might not happen at all.”
From extensive emergency supplies to nothing at all
If an emergency does arise, many panelists say they could handle the situation “pretty well.” Yet more than half do not have an emergency kit at home. Some people don’t think this is necessary, because they already have sufficient stock as standard. Others indicate that they do not have money for extra items, for example because they live on benefits.
Willem Duivis from Hoorn bought an emergency kit himself, but is not very pleased with its quality. He therefore believes that the government should offer better packages.
‘Government must provide emergency packages’
Many panel members believe that the government should provide emergency packages. According to them, anyone who pays taxes can expect that the state is responsible for security and basic services in times of crisis.
Other participants emphasize their own responsibility. In any case, Remi from Haarlemmermeer advocates that everyone do something: “If I prepare with the family and the neighbors don’t, you don’t leave them to their fate. If you do a little together, you can figure it out as a collective.”
There are no emergency plans
More than 70 percent of the panel members have not drawn up a contingency plan for an emergency. Many participants say they find it difficult to make agreements with family or neighbors, for example, as long as it is not clear what type of disaster they should prepare for.
Yet there are some exceptions. “We have agreed with some family members that we will meet at a location that is least affected by what is happening at that moment. We will then adapt when the situation requires it,” says a resident of Hoorn.