Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden is set to advise families to prepare for potential emergencies by stocking up on three days’ worth of food and water. The recommendation aims to bolster the nation’s resilience against threats such as prolonged power cuts, cyber attacks, and floods.
Last year, Mr. Dowden advocated for the acquisition of ‘analogue capabilities’ like candles, torches, and wind-up radios to enhance personal resilience. Building upon this advice, he will now advocate for households to ensure they have adequate supplies to sustain themselves for three days without needing to venture outside.
Government sources clarified that this initiative is not intended to cultivate a population reminiscent of US-style survivalists. Rather, it is portrayed as pragmatic guidance aimed at empowering individuals to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
Officials believe that individual preparedness will alleviate pressure on emergency services during crises and mitigate panic-buying episodes witnessed during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Inspired by countries such as Finland, where citizens are encouraged to adhere to a ’72-hour concept’ for managing disruptions to societal services, Mr. Dowden’s approach emphasizes preparedness through stockpiling essentials and readiness to follow instructions disseminated via radio broadcasts.
Last year, an ’emergency alert’ system was introduced by Mr. Dowden, enabling authorities to promptly notify millions of mobile phone users in the event of a potential crisis.
The renewed focus on national security comes on the heels of Prime Minister’s recent cautionary remarks regarding the forthcoming challenges facing Britain. Rishi Sunak underscored the emergence of a new axis comprising anti-western states like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, alongside other concerns such as heightened immigration and advancements in artificial intelligence.
