Why should I stockpile and what will I need?
By Jack Grey and Freya Scott-Turner, BBC News
Do you have three days' worth of food and water in your home?
That is what the government has advised us all to have on hand for a national emergency, along with some other essential items.
Its "Be Ready" campaign highlights that severe weather and cyber attacks could disrupt essential services, and British households should prepare accordingly.
On Friday, Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the increasing frequency of unexpected events and encouraged everyone to have "those supplies in the house to get you through those moments."
As one expert points out, the UK is "light years" behind our neighbors in terms of disaster preparedness. So, what do you need to stockpile?
What should I stockpile?
The government recommends storing enough supplies in the kitchen to last three days, including:
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable foods
- Wet wipes
- A torch
- Cash
Disaster planning expert Professor Lucy Easthope explains that the goal is to make it easier for emergency services to cope during a national emergency. For instance, having an extra supply of medication ensures that emergency pharmacists don't have to immediately locate medication for those who need it.
Some people are already ahead of the game. Bridgette Clamp from Cornwall shares her experience:
"I've stocked up on lots of tinned goods, flour, yeast, and everything to bake bread. We're rocking and rolling."
Another listener, Rob from north Wales, has prepared so thoroughly that he wouldn't even notice a disaster. However, he questions the government's motivation, wondering if it's "scaremongering."
Why is the government issuing this advice now?
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting clarified that the advice is not based on any specific intelligence but aims to improve "national resilience" more generally.
The campaign focuses on extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change, but also mentions the threat of sophisticated cyber-attacks and supply chain disruptions caused by hostile actors.
Professor Easthope has been advocating for such a campaign for years, emphasizing the importance of individual preparedness.