UK government launches Be Ready campaign for emergency preparedness

The British government has launched a national information campaign titled "Be Ready," urging households to prepare for potential emergencies. This initiative, promoted by the Cabinet Office, advises citizens to maintain essential supplies for at least 72 hours, including food, water, and emergency equipment. As part of a three-year effort to improve public resilience, the government emphasizes preparedness against risks such as extreme weather, prolonged power outages, cyberattacks, and hostile state actions.

Specific guidance provided to the public includes storing approximately nine liters of drinking water per person—three liters per day—along with long-life food, blankets, a first aid kit, cash, and a crank- or battery-operated radio. Security Minister Dan Jarvis noted that these steps are intended to help citizens handle daily emergency scenarios. While the campaign focuses on civilian protection, officials have acknowledged that these precautions also address broader security concerns and the increasing reliance of modern society on fragile critical infrastructure. Residents are encouraged to print and keep a preparedness checklist in an accessible location to ensure they are ready to sustain themselves if electronic payment systems or utility services are disrupted.