state of alert
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state of alert
The state in which people or organizations (e.g. fire department, military, hospital staff) are ready to act immediately in the event of an alarm or emergency.
Die gesamte Feuerwache wurde wegen des Sturms in Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The entire fire station was put on alert because of the storm.
state of alert
A state of heightened vigilance or tension in expectation of a possible problem or an important situation.
Vor der wichtigen Präsentation war das ganze Team in ständiger Alarmbereitschaft.
Before the important presentation, the whole team was in a constant state of alert.
The word consists of 'Alarm' (alarm) and 'Bereitschaft' (readiness). 'Bereitschaft' comes from the adjective 'bereit' (ready) and describes the state of being ready for something. So 'Alarmbereitschaft' (state of alert) is literally the state of being ready for an alarm.
Die Bereitschaft der Helfer, auch nachts zu arbeiten, war beeindruckend.
The helpers' willingness to work even at night was impressive.
This noun is very often used with the verb 'versetzen' (to put/place): 'jemanden/etwas in Alarmbereitschaft versetzen' (to put someone/something on alert). Another common combination is 'in Alarmbereitschaft sein' (to be on alert).
Die Nachricht hat die Polizei in höchste Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The news put the police on highest alert.
The first meaning usually refers to official institutions such as the fire department, police, or military in a real emergency. The second meaning is often metaphorical and describes personal or private tension in expectation of a problem.
Die Klinik wurde wegen des erwarteten Unwetters in Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The clinic was put on alert because of the expected severe weather.
operational readiness / commitment
Both words refer to the immediate readiness of emergency personnel. Einsatzbereitschaft means the general personnel and technical preparation for an operation. Alarmbereitschaft additionally refers to an alarm, emergency, or expected critical situation and therefore often indicates heightened vigilance.
Wegen der angekündigten Gefahr versetzte die Feuerwehr ihre Mannschaft in Alarmbereitschaft.
Because of the announced danger, the fire department put its team on alert.
Die Einsatzbereitschaft der Rettungswache ist rund um die Uhr gewährleistet.
The rescue station is operationally ready around the clock.
