Dutch municipalities test emergency support points for power outages

Municipalities in the Netherlands are conducting trials for emergency support points designed to assist residents during prolonged power outages or other major crises. These locations serve as hubs where citizens can access reliable information, request assistance, and report 112 emergencies if digital communication networks like telephone and internet are unavailable.

In the Twente region, the municipality of Losser is collaborating with Veiligheidsregio Twente alongside five other municipalities—Dinkelland, Enschede, Hellendoorn, Hof van Twente, and Tubbergen—to test these points. A test is scheduled for December 2, 2026, with locations in Glane and De Lutte. The goal is to evaluate operational requirements and improve cooperation between residents and various organizations.

In Tilburg, the municipality is initiating a trial at Wijkcentrum De Symfonie. This location was selected for its accessibility and familiarity to residents. The trial is part of a broader national effort involving various municipalities and safety regions to determine the most effective way to support citizens during emergencies. Exercises are planned for November to refine the setup and gather resident feedback.