LONDON – U.K. households are being advised to stockpile bottled water and other essentials to prepare for national emergencies, including the possibility of conflict on British soil. Ministers are intensifying calls for widespread societal resilience and plan a cross-government exercise to manage potential crises.
A security strategy released in June stated that “adversaries are laying the foundations for future conflict, positioning themselves to move quickly to cause major disruption to our energy and supply chains.” The document highlighted that for the first time in years, the nation must “actively prepare for the possibility of the U.K. homeland coming under direct threat, potentially in a wartime scenario.”
Prepare for More Then Just War
This preparedness drive extends beyond potential conflicts. It aims to ensure readiness for any large-scale disruption, such as prolonged power outages, water shortages, or extreme weather events. The government’s “Prepare” website offers guidance for all U.K. households on building a safety net for unforeseen national emergencies.
“Emergencies happen every day in the U.K. and across the world,” the prepare website notes. These events can stem from severe weather, natural hazards, deliberate actions, accidents, or infrastructure failures. They might be sudden and short-lived,or they could unfold and persist over days,months,or even longer.
Why stockpile water? The U.K. government advises citizens to stock up on key essentials, including bottled water, to be ready for emergencies. This guidance complements advice on planning escape routes and securing vital documents.
The recommended amount of water varies by individual needs and circumstances. It also depends on whether the focus is solely on drinking water or also includes water for cooking and hygiene.
for robust preparedness, families are advised to stockpile 10 liters of water per person per day. This quantity should be sufficient to cover several days. Thus, for a three-day period, this equates to 30 liters per person.
The World Health Organization recommends a minimum of 2.5 to 3 liters of drinking water per person daily for survival. An allocation of 10 liters per person per day provides for basic cooking and hygiene needs, enhancing comfort during an emergency.
Additional water may be necessary for specific situations, such as preparing baby formula, operating medical devices, and caring for pets.
The Prepare website also recommends stocking non-perishable foods, including tinned meats, fruits, and vegetables, along with a tin opener and pet food.Building reserves can be done gradually by adding items to your emergency kit during regular shopping trips.
