Be Ready campaign

​Are you emergency ready?

 

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

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

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The ‘Be Ready’ campaign  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.

 

Be Ready checklist

​The campaign provides a Be Ready checklist to help you consider what items to consider having at home.

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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 it 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.

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The Priority Services Register

If you or someone you know might need extra support during a gas, electricity or water outage, they may be able to sign up for the Priority Services Register. It’s a free service that ensures utility companies know who may need extra assistance. Lots of households are eligible, including those of pensionable age, people with long-term illnesses, and families with children under 5.

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Find out more about how to prepare and check your eligibility for extra help at: GOV.UK/BeReady

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The site is designed for residents in England. For local advice tailored to people living in Scotland or Northern Ireland, visit the Ready Scotland and NI Direct websites.

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