Preparing for the Unthinkable: A Guide for British Citizens
- Jun 16
- 5 min read
In an increasingly uncertain world, the concept of national preparedness is becoming a vital discussion. While we all hope for continued peace, it is prudent for every household to consider what they would do in the event of a national emergency or conflict. The UK government itself has emphasised the importance of citizens being prepared for various hazards, including potential conflict. This guide aims to provide practical advice for British people on preparing for such an eventuality, focusing on creating an emergency kit and knowing where to source essential items.
The goal isn't to create alarm, but to empower individuals and families with the knowledge and resources to better navigate unforeseen circumstances. A well-prepared household is a resilient household, capable of supporting itself and its community during difficult times.
Currently (as of 13/06/2025), a nationwide state of emergency has been in place due to conflict with Israel and Iran, with Iran threatening the UK & US with retaliation if the countries were to intervene.
The Importance of a Household Emergency Plan
Before assembling any kit, the most crucial step is to create a household emergency plan. This involves discussing with your family what you would do in different scenarios. Consider:
Communication: How will you contact each other if mobile networks are down? Have a designated meeting point.
Shelter: Where would you go if you needed to evacuate?
Roles: Who is responsible for what in an emergency?
Vulnerable family members: How will you ensure the safety of children, the elderly, or those with disabilities or medical conditions?
The GOV.UK "Prepare" campaign offers excellent resources, including a downloadable household emergency plan template, which can be found at prepare.campaign.gov.uk.
Your Emergency "Grab Bag": What to Pack...
An emergency "grab bag" or "go bag" is designed to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly. It should be easily accessible and everyone in the household should know where it is. Remember to tailor this list to your specific family needs, including any babies, pets, or individuals with specific medical requirements.
Here's a detailed breakdown of what to include:
1. Essential Documents (Waterproof Bag/Pouch):
Copies of ID: Passports, driving licenses, birth certificates.
Insurance documents: Home, car, and health insurance policies.
Medical records: Copies of prescriptions, important medical history, and contact details for your GP.
Emergency contact list: On paper, including family, friends, doctors, and any essential services (e.g., 105 for power cuts).
Financial documents: Copies of bank details, credit card numbers (consider small amounts of cash too).
House and car keys: Spare sets.
2. Food and Water:
Water: At least 3 litres per person per day for drinking. Consider water purification tablets or a portable water filter (e.g., Sawyer Mini).
Where to buy: Large supermarkets (bottled water), camping shops (water filters, purification tablets), online "prepper" or survival shops.
Non-perishable food: Enough for 3 days. Opt for ready-to-eat items that don't require cooking or refrigeration.
Examples: Tinned fruit, vegetables, meat/fish (with a manual tin opener), energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, biscuits.
Where to buy: Any supermarket. Dedicated "long-life food" or "freeze-dried food" suppliers online (e.g., Food Bunker, Sgt Prepper Shop) offer meals with extended shelf lives.
Baby supplies (if applicable): Ready-to-feed formula, sterilised bottles, nappies, wipes.
Pet supplies (if applicable): Dry food, lead, water bowl, any medication.
3. First Aid and Hygiene:
Comprehensive First Aid Kit:
Sterile adhesive bandages (various sizes)
Sterile dressings and gauze
Antiseptic wipes or solution
Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Any essential prescription medications (ensure enough for several days, check expiry dates regularly)
Thermometer
Tweezers
Medical tape
Eyewash solution
Hydrocortisone cream (for bites/rashes)
Antihistamines
Where to buy: Pharmacies (Boots, Superdrug), supermarkets, St John Ambulance (online for comprehensive kits).
Personal Hygiene Items:
Toothbrushes, toothpaste
Soap/hand sanitiser
Sanitary products
Wet wipes
Toilet paper
Small towel
Where to buy: Supermarkets, pharmacies.
4. Shelter and Warmth:
Change of clothes: Warm, durable, and weather-appropriate for each person (layers are key).
Strong, comfortable shoes.
Waterproof and windproof outer layer: Rain jacket, poncho.
Emergency blankets (foil blankets) or sleeping bags: Compact and lightweight.
Where to buy: Camping shops (Go Outdoors, Millets, Blacks), outdoor equipment sections of larger supermarkets, online retailers.
Small, lightweight tent or tarp (optional): For emergency shelter.
Where to buy: Camping shops.
5. Tools and Utilities:
Battery-powered or wind-up torch: With spare batteries if not wind-up.
Battery-powered or wind-up radio: For news and updates (include spare batteries).
Portable power bank: For charging mobile phones (ensure it's charged).
Multi-tool or penknife.
Whistle: For signalling for help.
Duct tape: Extremely versatile for repairs.
Pencil and paper.
Rubbish bags.
Small amount of cash: In various denominations, as electronic payments may not be available.
Where to buy: Hardware stores (B&Q, Wickes), outdoor shops, online marketplaces, specialist "prepper" shops.
6. Miscellaneous (Consider as Needed):
Entertainment: Small books, a deck of cards, drawing materials for children.
Durable bag: A comfortable rucksack is ideal for carrying these items.
Where to Source Your Supplies in the UK
You don't need to visit specialist stores for everything. Many of the items can be found during your regular shopping trips.
Supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, Lidl, Aldi): Excellent for non-perishable food, bottled water, basic first aid items, toiletries, and some battery-powered torches.
Pharmacies (Boots, Superdrug, local independent pharmacies): Essential for prescription medications, first aid kits, over-the-counter remedies, and hygiene products.
Camping and Outdoor Stores (Go Outdoors, Millets, Blacks, Decathlon): Ideal for robust torches, wind-up radios, portable water filters, camping food, emergency blankets, and durable rucksacks.
Hardware Stores (B&Q, Wickes, Screwfix): Good for batteries, duct tape, and some tools.
Online Retailers (Amazon.co.uk): Offers a vast selection of all the items listed, often including pre-made emergency kits from brands like EVAQ8.
Specialist "Prepper" or Survival Shops (Sgt Prepper Shop, Preppers Shop UK, Food Bunker): These stores specialise in long-life food, advanced water purification, and more niche survival gear.
Tips for Assembling Your Kit:
Start small: Don't feel you need to buy everything at once. Build your kit gradually.
Check expiry dates: Regularly review and replace food, water, and medications before they expire.
Keep it accessible: Store your grab bag in a known, easily reachable location, such as a hallway cupboard or near an exit.
Involve your family: Make sure everyone knows what's in the bag and why it's important. Practice what you would do in an emergency.
Consider a car kit: A smaller version of your grab bag for your vehicle can be invaluable if you're stranded.
While the prospect of conflict is daunting, taking proactive steps to prepare can provide a sense of control and security. By having a clear plan and a well-stocked emergency kit, British citizens can enhance their resilience and be better equipped to face whatever the future may hold.