New national campaigns asks - are you Emergency Ready?

Everyday emergencies like storms can disrupt the essential services you rely on - like your phone, water, power and the internet.

Taking a few simple steps to prepare can make a big difference, helping you manage while emergency support reaches those who need it most.

The government is launching a new ‘Be Ready’ campaign which highlights how households can prepare for up to three days of disruption caused by everyday emergencies like severe storms.

This includes simple actions such as signing up to the Priority Services Register, a completely free service that helps gas, water, and electricity companies identify customers who might need extra support during an emergency.

Lots of households are eligible, including those of pensionable age, people with long-term illnesses, and families with children under five.

The ‘Be Ready’ campaign also encourages households to gradually build up three days’ worth of bottled water and non-perishable food and gather items they may already have like torches and blankets in a place they can access.

Why launch this now? 

• It is bringing the UK into line with our European neighbours, where these preparedness campaigns are completely routine.

• The public has also said wants this guidance; 84% of people recently surveyed said the government should provide advice on preparing for emergencies.

  
  

What about the cost of living?

• Some actions are completely free, including checking in with neighbours or signing up to the Priority Services Register: www.thepsr.co.uk

• People could have some of the items at home already. There is no need to do everything at once. Readiness can be built up gradually over time by taking it step by step and picking up an extra item or two when and if you can.

• It does not need to be expensive. You can build up several days of water for one adult for under £5. You can get several days of food for one adult for under £10.

• It is recognised that some people will not have the means to take action, but the campaign encourages those who can take action to do so. Household resilience builds community resilience; by taking these affordable steps, you help ensure that emergency services can reach those most in need first.

Find out more about how to prepare including a handy ‘Be Ready’ checklist with suggestions items to help you prepare for emergencies at: GOV.UK/BeReady 

You can also visit our 5-steps campaign page for simple tips on becoming better prepared for emergencies.