In a crisis, having the right information can save your life. Rumours cause uncertainty. Some people spread them on purpose to destroy trust. Today, remember where you can get reliable information in an emergency.
Your official channels
- Warning app NINA and official warnings sent directly to your phone.
- Radio: your local station. If the power goes out, a wind-up, battery or car radio may be the last working source of information.
- The websites of your city or district and the authorities.
Three questions before you share
- Is the source trustworthy? Who reported it first? Is there a real name and an imprint?
- Is there evidence? Are sources named? Is there a fact check?
- Do other trustworthy sources report the same thing?
Just one “No” means: do not forward it.
Good to know
- Be especially careful with messages that surprise you, scare you or make you angry. These messages spread fastest. Disinformation aims to cause exactly these reactions.
- Photos, voices and videos can also be faked so well that they look real.
- Report inflammatory or absurd content. Block the source. Do not share it. A rumour that you do not pass on ends with you.
- Save the phone network during a crisis. Send your family and friends a short SMS (“I am safe”) instead of making a long call. Emergency services need free lines.
- Take breaks from the news. Set fixed times to get information. Reading updates all the time wears you down and helps no one.
When to get help
If in doubt: 112. In immediate danger, call 112. Do not rely on a social media post.