Answers to frequently asked questions: Defusing World War II bombs
If a world war bomb is found in Wiesbaden, you will find answers to frequently asked questions and background information here.
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An evacuation is the relocation of people from an endangered area to a safe area. This can be triggered by natural disasters, large-scale power failures, fires or the defusing of a world war bomb. Everyone must leave the evacuation area. As soon as this has happened, emergency services check whether the area is really deserted, also using technical aids such as thermal imaging cameras.
You can return to your home or workplace once the evacuation has been lifted. This will be announced by loudspeaker, in the media and on this page.
How can I prepare for an evacuation?
Rescue and emergency services cannot help all companies, facilities or citizens at the same time in the event of a large-scale crisis. It is therefore advisable to take your own precautions. You can find out how to prepare for an evacuation or other crisis situations on the Emergency preparedness page.
What should I pack for an evacuation?
Documents: Please take importantpersonal documents with you, for example your identity card, driver's license or medical documents.
Medication: You should also be sure to pack important medication.
Food and clothing: Think about food (baby food) and suitable clothing, as the evacuation area will be closed for a few hours and there may be unplanned delays.
How should I leave my house or apartment?
You should leave your house or apartment ready for your vacation. Turn off the lights, TV and radio. Also turn off candles, close taps and make sure that gas and electric stoves are switched off. Close windows and doors. Lock the front door.
Will electricity and gas be turned off?
As a rule, electricity and gas are not switched off.
Can I stay at home or at work at my own risk?
No, you are not allowed to do that. The entire evacuation area must be evacuated. Police and public order officers may use direct force to evacuate homes. This means that, in an emergency, they may break down doors and use force to remove people from their homes. Evacuations are necessary because there is a danger to life and limb in the evacuation area; not only for you, but also for emergency services who would have to rescue or care for people in an emergency.
What do I do with my pet during the evacuation?
As a rule, pets can and should stay at home. Especially if animals are only used to a domestic environment, they are better off at home - provided they have been provided with food and water.
How do I find out when the evacuation was lifted?
The emergency services will inform you about the end of the evacuation via the media (newspaper, radio, radio, ...) and via loudspeaker announcements on site. The end of the evacuation will also be announced on this page.
Background information on world war bombs
Why do bombs have to be defused or detonated in a controlled manner?
Unexploded bombs from the First and Second World Wars are still dangerous. Their explosive devices are still intact and are becoming increasingly sensitive due to ageing. World War II bombs can explode due to vibrations, changes in position or temperature fluctuations. This is life-threatening. Due to the high danger posed by unexploded ordnance, world war bombs must be blown up or defused as quickly as possible.
Why can the start of defusing be delayed?
There may be delays if not everyone has left the evacuation area in time. Please help and leave the area in good time. Every person left behind delays the defusing process.
How long does the defusing process take?
The defusing of a world war bomb can only begin after the evacuation has been completed. There is no general answer to how long defusing a bomb takes. It depends on numerous factors. In addition to the origin, design and detonation system of the bomb, local conditions also play a role. Depending on how deep the bomb is located, whether it has been moved and what condition it is in, the operation will take different lengths of time. Light and weather also play a role. For example, if a location needs to be illuminated or protected from the rain, it will take longer.
Who defuses or detonates a bomb?
The Explosive Ordnance Clearance Service of the State of Hesse (opens in a new tab) defuses or detonates unexploded ordnance. It also determines the level of danger posed by the explosive force and detonator. On this basis, the experts decide whether a bomb should be defused or detonated. They also determine a safety radius within which buildings must be evacuated and roads closed.
The Darmstadt Regional Council is the central authority responsible for the entire state.
What if the defusing doesn't go well?
We firmly believe that the World War II bombs will be defused as planned. In the unlikely event that something does happen, all security forces are prepared.
