Civil protection in the province of Friesland

After World War II, America and the Soviet Union come face to face with each other. The Soviet Union had an immense army standing by just behind the former German-German border, which – if the command had come from Moscow – could have occupied the port of Rotterdam within a few days.

In many places, 'atomic bunkers' were built where the civilian population could shelter and underground emergency hospitals where the wounded could be treated. The bunkers were under the responsibility of the Population Protection organization, better known as the BB.

This organization was founded in 1952 and consisted for the most part of volunteers (men and women). In the event of an air raid, they would act as quickly as possible to clear debris, transport the wounded to hospitals and extinguish fires. There was also a national warning system, of which the sirens were the loudest sign.

From 1970 the BB was constantly cut back, and from 1981 the BB was gradually phased out and discontinued. The functions of the BB were taken over by other aid organizations. In 1986 the BB was dissolved for good. During this car route you will visit the Population Protection Museum in Grou, the Oude Mirdum Air Watch Tower and the Oranjewoud BB Bunker. Do not forget to inquire about the opening times of the museums in this car route!

Have fun!