Civil protection: Civil defence
In Germany, civil defence refers to all non-military measures in a state of defence or tension that serve to protect the population and maintain public infrastructure. It therefore differs from civil defence by definition and above all in terms of constitutional responsibilities. These are fundamentally different situations and areas of responsibility: According to Art. 73 No. 1 of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz - GG), civil defence is part of the exclusive legislative competence of the federal government over "defence, including the protection of the civilian population". It is a sub-sector of civil defence for which the Federal Ministry of the Interior is responsible.
The city of Chemnitz participates in civil defence on behalf of the federal government.
A civil defence medical unit is stationed in Chemnitz and is staffed by the Chemnitz fire brigade together with partners from the German Red Cross and the Workers' Samaritan Federation. The Medical Task Force (MTF) is a standardised, medical service, doctor-staffed tactical unit with special skills for use in civil defence and federal disaster relief across federal states.
Insight into the work of civil defence in Chemnitz
Volunteering in civil defence: anyone can help
Volunteer work is an important pillar of civil defence and disaster control. Public and private aid organisations work closely together and provide rapid assistance when needed.
Volunteers in various organisations use their skills in specific areas to ensure the operational capability of public institutions.
The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance is calling for volunteers.
Further information:
On its website, the BBK provides insights into volunteering and the various volunteering opportunities.
An online test helps you to find the aid organisation that best suits your interests.