Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund warns of German emergency service risks

Knut Fleckenstein, Federal Chairman of the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB), has raised concerns regarding Germany's preparedness for crises and disasters. He noted a significant shortage of protective infrastructure, stating that only two mobile care modules exist nationwide, one from the ASB and one from the German Red Cross, and that existing vehicles are aging.

Fleckenstein is calling for legal equality for volunteer emergency responders, similar to those in the volunteer fire departments and the Technical Relief Agency (THW). He argues that volunteers should not have to negotiate with employers for leave during emergencies. Regarding geopolitical tensions, Fleckenstein stated he sees no signs of a Russian attack on a NATO country, though he acknowledged ongoing hybrid attacks aimed at damaging the European Union.

Additionally, the ASB warned of potential service cuts, including the reduction of ambulances, due to insufficient financing following recent emergency care reforms passed by the Bundestag. Fleckenstein cautioned that if wages and salaries are not properly refinanced, aid organizations could face losses. He also called for amendments to the Emergency Paramedic Act to ensure paramedics can legally perform the life-saving measures for which they are trained.