(Press release September 13, 2023)
Next Friday, September 15, 2023, Upper Austria will train for a possible emergency as part of the country’s disaster control exercise. This year’s exercise simulates a flood catastrophe – with massive flooding in the metropolitan area of Linz and along the Danube. As a result, several industrial accidents are expected. The exercise scenario includes numerous explosions and fires that cause the spread of toxic gases in the Linz area. Furthermore, the situation is expected to worsen due to chemical leaks and water pollution.
Large-scale international exercise in Upper Austria
The aim of the state disaster protection exercise is to quickly react to the aforementioned scenario in all organizations and combat the natural disaster together in the best possible way. This year, the focus is mainly on intensive international cooperation. Because Upper Austria is currently the location of the EU disaster control exercise “formatex23” (Full Operational Response to Major Accidents Triggered by Natural Hazards – Large-Scale Exercise 2023). This means that civil protection authorities and organizations from other countries, such as Belgium, Germany, France, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands and Romania, also participate in this exercise and work intensively with the services local emergency services on site.
The ultimate goal is the best possible protection for the population
“We have a powerful network of emergency, emergency and relief organizations in Upper Austria so that we can respond appropriately to disasters. Disaster control skills and processes must be trained through regular exercises. Collaboration and unity are crucial. International cooperation within the framework of European civil protection is also important, as it can further improve the fight against natural disasters. The ultimate goal is the best possible protection for the population. Our urgent and emergency services organizations and their many volunteers are doing excellent work here”, emphasizes State Governor, Mag. Thomas Stelzer.
In addition to the authorities and crisis teams, the inhabitants of Upper Austria take part in this international disaster control exercise. The State Fire Association, the Austrian Red Cross, the Samaritan Workers’ Association, the Upper Austrian State Police Directorate and the Upper Austrian Military Command took part. A total of around 700 emergency services are involved.