The UK government launched its Be Ready campaign on 22 October 2026, asking households to be ready for three days of disruption. The advice covers familiar emergencies such as storms, floods, power cuts and water-supply failures, as well as cyber incidents. Officials have framed it as practical preparation, not an instruction to stockpile and not a prediction that an emergency will happen within three days.

What is on the checklist

The checklist asks for three litres of drinking water per person per day, plus extra for cooking and washing, and three days of food that needs no fridge or cooking. It also lists a torch and spare batteries, blankets and warm clothing, a battery-powered or wind-up FM radio, a charged power bank, cash and cards, copies of important documents, a written list of numbers and medicines, a first-aid kit and medication, and supplies for babies and pets where relevant.

What has changed, and what has not

Much of the advice continues earlier GOV.UK Prepare guidance, which the new Be Ready site replaces. New or newly explicit items include cash, warm clothing and blankets, document copies and a written list of numbers and medicines, and a specific water figure for the first time. The campaign is planned to run for three years, with households advised to build supplies gradually during normal shopping and to review them regularly, rather than buying everything at once. Eligible households are also asked to consider signing up to the Priority Services Register.