Be Ready checklist
DRAFT: This checklist is waiting for review. Figures and wording may change before launch.
Be Ready, the UK Government’s preparedness campaign, suggests keeping enough supplies at home to last 3 days. Most homes already have many of these things. Tick off what you have, then fill any gaps a little at a time. Skip any section that does not apply to you.
Tips
- Keep your supplies together in one place that everyone at home knows about.
- Check dates and batteries every few months. An easy reminder is when the clocks change.
- Use up food and water before it goes out of date, and replace it.
Water
- Bottled or stored tap water for 3 days 3 litres per person per day for drinking
- Extra water for cooking and washing
Food
- Non-perishable food for 3 days For example tinned meat, fish or vegetables, dried fruit and nuts
- Foods your household normally eats
- A tin opener that works by hand
Hygiene
- Hand sanitiser
- Wet wipes
- Bathroom products For example toilet roll and sanitary products
Light and warmth
- Torch Torches are safer than candles
- Spare batteries
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Warm clothing
Communication and information
- FM (frequency modulation) radio, battery or wind-up Write down your local station frequencies
- Charged power bank For phones or compatible medical devices
- Charging cables
Money and documents
- Cash, a mix of coins and notes
- Bank cards
- Copies of important documents For example passports, birth certificates, insurance, medical equipment instructions
- Important phone numbers on paper Include emergency contacts
- List of regular medication and doses
Medical and health
- First aid kit Plasters, bandages, thermometer, antiseptic, tweezers
- Essential medication
- Repeat prescriptions ordered in good time Request them up to 5 working days before you need them
Baby products
- Ready-to-feed formula Best, as you may not be able to boil water
- Nappies
- Baby wipes
Pet products
- Pet food
- Bottled water for pets
From emergencyprepared.co.uk/checklists/be-ready/. Not an official government checklist.
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Want the reasons behind each item? Read the guide: The Be Ready checklist explained.