by Anne MacLennan
After encouragement from various agencies concerned about increasing risks to the public from climate and geopolitical instability, the UK Government launched the Be Ready Campaign in October. Citizens are advised to prepare for emergencies such as extreme weather events or cyber attacks which could disrupt food supplies, transport or communication systems, cause power cuts or other unexpected situations.
The advice is to keep stocks of food, water and medications to last at least three days, with a checklist covering water, food, hygiene, heat and light, communication, money and documentation, first aid and health items, as well as baby and pet supplies.
The downloadable household emergency plan has space to note where water, electricity or gas can be turned off, contact numbers, insurance details and potential escape routes from the home. The website has information on a range of hazards. Some, such as antimicrobial resistance are possibly more about how to spot or to prevent emergencies.
Ready Scotland also has advice on a range of emergency situations including floods and wildfires. There is guidance on making a household emergency plan with a practical and simple proforma to fill in and share. Community preparedness and resilience is emphasised, and again, there are background documents with useful information.
