Fire zones Antwerp and Kempen ready for storm Austen: "Extra call made to our volunteers"

The fire departments in Antwerp and Kempen are preparing for storm Austen, which is expected to bring rain and wind. The KMI has issued a yellow warning for the province. Antwerp is checking equipment and keeping dispatchers on-site, while Kempen is asking volunteers to confirm their availability. Additional personnel will only be called in if the warning escalates to orange. The emergency number 1722 is available for non-urgent assistance. Residents are advised to secure loose items and avoid areas with trees during the storm. Past storms have led to over 1,000 calls in a single day, and the departments are ready for similar situations.