Emergency services have activated the non-emergency number 1722 on Monday to respond to potential storm and flooding risks, according to a statement from the Belgian Home Affairs Ministry.
The Royal Meteorological Institute (RMI) has assigned code yellow to the northern regions of the country due to expected strong winds. Gusts are predicted to reach between 70 to 90 km/h, potentially more in the far north. Belgium is set to experience a swath of rain and showers from the coast through to the Ardennes.
In an effort to prevent emergency lines from being overloaded with calls for non-emergency incidents, the Home Affairs Ministry has activated the special 1722 number. This number should be used for storm damage or water damage issues that require firefighter assistance but are not life-threatening. If a life is in danger, the public is urged to dial 112.
The Ministry also recommends using the electronic desk at 1722.be as the "most direct way" to request firefighter assistance in situations where no lives are in immediate danger.
