9 items every UK household should have at home at all times

Updated guidance published on October 22 marks the start of a three-year public resilience initiative.

Guidance published on the government's Be Ready website urges families to prepare for up to three days of disruption.

Officials said being ready for three days helps households manage while support reaches people in need.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: "Those who can follow this advice should follow this advice."

Jarvis said: "By taking simple steps to be ready for everyday emergencies like severe storms, people can reduce pressure on emergency services, helping them prioritise people who need more support in an emergency."

The nine essential supplies on the checklist

• Bottled water: The checklist recommends three litres of drinking water per person per day for three days, with additional water needed for cooking and washing.
• Non-perishable food: Tins of meat, fish, and vegetables, alongside dried fruit and nuts that do not require refrigeration or cooking.
• Torch and spare batteries: Torches provide safer illumination than candles during power cuts.
• Battery or wind-up FM radio: Radios allow families to receive news bulletins if networks fail, alongside written station frequencies.
• Charged power bank: Portable chargers keep mobile phones and compatible medical devices powered throughout supply interruptions.

• First aid kit and medicines: Supplies including plasters, bandages, antiseptic, and repeat prescriptions requested up to five days in advance.
• Cash and documents: Paper notes and coins alongside photocopies of passports, insurance papers, and written telephone numbers.
• Hygiene items: Hand sanitiser, wet wipes, and bathroom products to maintain sanitation when tap supplies stop.
• Warm clothing and bedding: Blankets, sleeping bags, and clothes to protect against dropping indoor temperatures.

(Image: Gov.UK)

Households with infants or animals are also urged to store ready-to-feed baby formula, nappies, and pet supplies.

Ministers said residents do not need to buy items all at once, advising families to check cupboards and pick up items gradually.

People can also sign up to the Priority Services Register to ensure utility suppliers identify customers who require extra help.