Overview
- Germany’s federal civil protection office warns against relying solely on cards or phones because payment networks and ATMs can fail during power cuts.
- The BBK sets no fixed amount, while Upper Austria’s civil protection advises about €500 per household kept in small denominations.
- Swiss guidance recommends holding enough small notes and coins to cover a week’s groceries plus possibly a tank of fuel.
- Experts suggest favoring 10- and 20-euro notes because shops may have no change when systems are down.
- Secure, discreet storage is urged—ideally a safe or sturdy concealment—given the risks of burglary, fire and water damage.