A little preparation can make a temporary disruption easier to manage. The UK’s latest advice is about taking practical precautions, checking what you already own and filling gaps gradually.
Why has the government updated its advice?
On 22 October 2026, the Cabinet Office launched updated household guidance through the Be Ready campaign. Its announcement describes preparation for events such as severe weather that can interrupt electricity, water, phones or internet services. It does not announce a specific imminent threat.
The UK has published household resilience advice since May 2024. The latest campaign builds on that guidance rather than introducing an entirely new idea.
Similar campaigns already operate in European countries. The government specifically names France, Ireland and the Netherlands as using the same three-day preparedness approach. It would be inaccurate to say that every European country has followed identical advice for years.
What should you keep at home?
The official Be Ready checklist recommends preparing for three days:
- Drinking water: three litres per person daily; allow extra for cooking and washing.
- Food: familiar long-life options requiring neither chilling nor cooking.
- Hygiene: hand sanitiser, personal wet wipes and bathroom essentials.
- Lighting: a torch with suitable spare batteries.
- Warmth: blankets, sleeping bags and warm clothes.
- Communication: a battery-operated or wind-up FM radio and a charged power bank.
- Money: some cash alongside payment cards.
- Information: paper copies of key documents, contact numbers and medication details.
- Health: first-aid supplies and necessary medicines or medical equipment.
- Babies: nappies, wipes and suitable feeding supplies; ready-to-feed formula where needed.
- Pets: food and drinking water.
Start with cupboards you already have, build up gradually and review supplies every six months. Consider neighbours who might need help. Check eligibility for the free Priority Services Register.
Useful categories at Status Home Care
Our shop can help with parts of your checklist. These links are shopping options, not a complete emergency kit or a government-endorsed selection.
- Torches and portable lighting — check the power source and keep rechargeable models charged.
- Batteries — match size and type to your devices.
- Personal-care and first-aid supplies — check individual kit contents against your household’s needs. Surface-cleaning wipes are not personal hygiene wipes.
- Storage boxes — optional organisers for keeping items together; ordinary boxes are not necessarily waterproof.
What about candles and gas?
The official checklist recommends torches over candles for emergency lighting. Candles and camping gas are not included as recommended essentials on that checklist. Our candle and fuel ranges should not be mistaken for official preparedness recommendations.
Never use outdoor camping stoves indoors or in enclosed spaces. Use any fuel only with compatible equipment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Preparation starts with a plan
You do not need to buy a large bundle of products. Begin by checking what your household already has, then choose practical steps that suit your space and budget.
Status Home Care is part of Status Group, based in the North West with delivery all over the UK.
Checked 1 November 2026. Sources: Cabinet Office announcement, 22 October 2026 and the Be Ready checklist. Consult official guidance for updates.