Thousands of Emergency Responders Gear Up for New Year’s Eve Safety
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, more than 10,000 emergency responders will be on duty, ready to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration. Their primary goal? To prevent and mitigate any violence that may occur.
Concerns Over Recurring Violence
The police are particularly concerned about the recurring violence against emergency responders, as seen in previous New Year’s celebrations. Last year, incidents in cities like Den Haag, Nieuw-Beijerland, and Hedel left over 200 police officers and other emergency personnel injured. Many suffered permanent hearing damage or mental health issues as a result.
Corry van Breda, the national portfolio holder for violence at the police, expresses his dismay, "Some people have suffered permanent hearing loss or are dealing with mental health issues. This is completely unacceptable."
Preparation and Prevention
In preparation for this year’s celebrations, the police have been training extensively since the summer. They’ve conducted numerous drills with mobile units, arrest teams, and reconnaissance units, focusing on handling large crowds and violence in the dark.
Additionally, officers have been in contact with key figures in local neighborhoods to stay informed and quickly address any potential unrest. This proactive approach has proven effective in preventing incidents in previous years.
Enhanced Protection and Bodycams
Emergency responders will be equipped with safety glasses, hearing protection, and fire-resistant clothing. In Den Haag and Oost-Nederland, new hearing protectors will be tested. The police warn that throwing fireworks will be considered attempted murder, leading to heavier penalties. Furthermore, while harsher penalties for violence against emergency responders are possible, recent research shows that these aren’t always applied to their full extent in practice.
Several fire departments, including those in Leiden and surrounding areas, will deploy bodycams for the first time. The cameras can be activated when violence is imminent. Jörgen Lucas, spokesperson for the Safety Region Hollands-Midden, believes bodycams can have a preventive effect, "If you see someone wearing a camera, you might adjust your behavior. And if there are any issues, we’ll have evidence."
The ambulance services are also aware of the potential for aggression, but their concerns are less pronounced. They hope to replicate the peaceful New Year’s celebrations of recent years.
With extensive preparation and enhanced safety measures, emergency responders are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve for all.
