Stay safe for 72 hours
In the event of a disaster or crisis – such as a major power outage or flooding – emergency services will prioritise life-threatening situations. That’s why it’s important to be able to take care of yourself for at least 72 hours, with enough food, water, heat and light. This not only helps you, but also those around you – like neighbours, family or others who may need help more urgently. Stay safe for 72 hours
Download the Zuidlimburgveilig app
The Zuidlimburgveilig app can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play. It has been developed by the South Limburg Safety Region and can be an essential tool during an emergency. The app sends alerts and practical advice if something happens in your area. For example, if there’s a nearby fire producing heavy smoke, you’ll receive a notification advising you to close windows and doors. It also offers guidance on how to respond to situations like power outages or flooding. Once installed, the app continues to function even without an internet connection. For more information, visit zuidlimburgveilig.nl.
Get the Zuidlimburgveilig app from Google Play
Get the Zuidlimburgveilig app from the Apple App Store
Be prepared in 3 steps
Step 1: build a 72-hour emergency kit
Make sure you have enough of the following to last at least 3 days:
- water: 3 litres per person per day
- long-life food: such as nuts, canned vegetables, and dried fruit
- communication tools: a battery-powered radio, fully charged mobile phone with a power bank
- tip: in South Limburg, the emergency broadcast station is 95.3 FM
- lighting: torch with spare batteries, candles and matches
- first aid kit
- warm blankets
- whistle: for signalling in an emergency
- cash: €70 per adult, €30 per child
- tools: hammer, saw, wire cutters
- hygiene items: hand sanitiser, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary products, toothpaste and toothbrush
- important documents: copies of ID and a list of key phone numbers
- spare keys: for your home or car, for example
- rucksack or large bag: in case you need to leave your home
- depending on your needs: medication, baby formula, pet food or other specific items
You don’t have to buy everything at once – see what you already have and expand your kit gradually. Check every six 6 months to ensure everything is still complete and hasn't expired. Store your emergency supplies in a convenient place that's easy to reach.
Step 2: make an emergency plan
Discuss with your family or housemates what to do in the event of a power cut or another type of emergency. It’s important to consider and agree on the following:
- store torches, candles, and matches or lighters in clearly designated places
- ensure everyone knows where the emergency kit is kept
- learn how to operate electric gates or shutters manually
- agree on a meeting point in case you are unable to contact one another
- decide who will be responsible for picking up children or caring for pets
- make arrangements to help neighbours or relatives who may need assistance
- consider what to do if no one is at home when an emergency occurs.
Step 3: talk about it
Let your neighbours, friends or family know that you’re prepared and explain why it matters. Being ready for an emergency is just as important as having smoke alarms or a first aid kit. Help each other where you can.
Reliable information in emergency situations
In an emergency situation, you want to know what is going on and what you should do. But where can you quickly find reliable information?
NL Alert
If you need to take action, such as staying indoors or closing windows and doors, an NL Alert will be sent out.
The Zuidlimburgveilig app
This app is from the South Limburg Safety Region and can be vital in the event of a disaster or crisis. Download the app via one of the two buttons at the top of this page. There you will also find more information about the app.
Municipal website and government website
You can also obtain information in an emergency via this municipal website and the government websites.
Radio station L1
In major emergencies, L1 will provide you with news and updates on what is happening. It is best to tune your radio to 95.3 FM.
Information booklet Prepare for emergencies
Every household in the Netherlands has received the information booklet Prepare for an emergency in their letterbox. It contains practical tips on how to survive for 72 hours if, for example, there is no electricity, water or internet. If you have not received the booklet or have lost it, you can pick one up at the GemeenteLoket, Mosae Forum 10 in Maastricht. You can also download the booklet from the Denk Vooruit website. This website also features a visual summary, translations and explanations in sign language and simple language.
Awareness campaign
The South Limburg Safety Region and 15 municipalities in the area are working together on a campaign to increase awareness around emergency preparedness. Through various channels – including our website, social media and local publications – we’re providing practical guidance and encouraging everyone to prepare for unexpected situations. Together, we can make sure the region is better prepared for any crisis.
Download the app campaign
At the end of March 2026, we used various channels to urge everyone to download the Zuidlimburgveilig app. We used AI to create a video featuring, among other things, a burning Town Hall to grab people’s attention. For the record: the footage has been edited and does not depict real situations. Watch the video below:
More information
Got any questions? Check the frequently asked questions at zuidlimburgveilig.nl. You’ll also find more details there. The national campaign at english.denkvooruit.nl also offers a wide range of useful tips.