We do not solve property in crises, the backpack is necessary today

Like many other countries, Slovenia faces various risks that can endanger its inhabitants, from natural disasters, the consequences of climate change, cyber attacks to of a possible military conflict.

Anica Ferlin, Protection and Rescue Expert in Podcast On the edge He explains how Slovenia is preparing for potential disasters, including earthquakes, floods, fires and even war threats. In doing so, it emphasizes the importance of information and readiness of the population, as well as the role of individuals and organizations in response to crisis.

“In recent years, most of the time, generations that have grown after independence have lived in the belief that wars and major natural disasters are something abstract, which is happening elsewhere, but not in our country. However, experience, such as icebreaking, covid-19, floods and fires, have shown that we are not immune to such risks, « says the interviewee.

Ferlin points out that the key to survival is in crisis situations in the readiness and information of the individual. It is important for the individual to be well informed and prepared for different risks in advance, « says Ferlin. This includes preparation for natural disasters, such as an earthquake, with special home preparations, such as enclosure, food and water supplies, and preparation of urgent supplies.

Food stocks are needed today

In Slovenia, it is also important for each individual to be prepared for natural disasters such as floods or fires by building their own resistance in these areas. « Food, drinking water, medicines, batteries and other emergency supplies is crucial, as there is no time to prepare in crisis, » advises Ferlin, adding that there is no time to deal with property at the time. According to Ferlin’s: « The best we can do is that we are ready and not wait for the accident to happen. »

Increasing concerns about changes in the international security environment are at the forefront of Slovenia’s readiness for war. “Slovenia has certain plans for responding in the event of a war, but we have to admit that they have been shelters overlooked and often used for other purposes,« Ferlinova admits. Nevertheless, the state, according to her, is aware of this problem and strives to improve the state of shelters.

Schools should be prepared for crisis

Preparations for crisis are not merely the task of the individual, but also the organizations. Ferlin points out that exercises and education are crucial to improving responsiveness in crisis situations. « In schools and businesses, we should regularly carry out training so that everyone knows how to respond properly, » he says. Recent events, such as fires and other accidents, have shown that evacuation exercises are often too common, which can increase the risk of serious consequences in the event of an accident.

« In Slovenia, we have many risk assessments that cover both natural disasters and other threats, » explains Ferlinova, adding that estimates are crucial for guidance of protection and rescue measures. With a focus on preventative measures, the Slovenian authorities have already performed numerous exercises to manage accidents. « During these exercises, preparedness has proven to be crucial, especially for unpredictable events such as earthquakes, whose prediction is still impossible. »

What is the worst thing that can come to Slovenia? “We cannot easily determine which threat would in a particular situation represent the greatest catastrophe, as it depends on the likelihood of the phenomenon and the consequences it has on us as a country, society and individuals. The perception of risks is also subjective, every individual of the risk is experienced and interpreted in his own way. « 

With regard to the military threat, Ferlin’s Miri. “Despite changes in the international security environment, we must emphasize that the Republic of Slovenia is not directly at risk. If this had changed, the competent authorities would take the necessary steps and the public would be informed accordingly. According to her, the likelihood of direct military conflict in Slovenia is very low. Yet there are other threats that are not necessarily associated with international conflicts and poses a greater risk. «