The UK government has launched a campaign urging households to prepare for potential national emergencies by stockpiling essential supplies and planning for disruptions. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the importance of readiness in the face of increasing threats, including extreme weather events, cyberattacks, state-sponsored terrorism, and supply chain interruptions.

The campaign, which includes a published “Be Ready” checklist, advises families to store three days’ worth of water, food, medication, cash, and other necessities such as blankets, warm clothing, and a battery or wind-up radio. The guidance suggests households keep nine litres of drinking water per person and stockpile food that can be consumed without refrigeration or cooking. Families with babies are advised to secure formula, nappies, and wipes, while the public is encouraged to prepare “grab bags” for quick evacuation scenarios and to have emergency supplies available in vehicles.

Streeting highlighted examples such as the disruption of supermarket payment systems and the growing risk of natural disasters like floods and wildfires as reasons for preparedness. Speaking at a weapons factory opening in Shropshire, he noted that Britain’s ability to manufacture and replenish critical defense equipment is essential for sustaining military operations in any prolonged conflict. The factory will produce parts for tanks for the first time in two decades as part of efforts to bolster industrial capacity and readiness by 2030. General Sir Roly Walker, chief of the general staff, stressed that industrial capacity must be established before a crisis arises, as it cannot be quickly created once conflict begins.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis added that individual preparedness could help reduce pressure on emergency services during severe weather events, enabling them to focus on those most in need. The government plans to run the resilience campaign for three years, with targeted messaging through social media and radio to reach vulnerable groups such as families with young children and the elderly.

In addition to household measures, the government announced enhanced protections for critical infrastructure, including undersea cables and pipelines, introducing stricter penalties—up to 14 years in prison and unlimited fines—for damaging vital assets. This aims to defend against potential sabotage amid concerns over threats from hostile foreign actors.

However, the campaign has drawn criticism from some quarters. Opponents argue that government resources would be better spent on strengthening national defense and critical infrastructure resilience rather than advising the public on emergency preparedness. Reform MP Danny Kruger called the guidance “bossy lectures” and urged increased defense spending to deter aggression, citing vulnerabilities in military bases, civilian infrastructure, and digital systems exposed to cyber threats. Tory security spokesman Alicia Kearns echoed this view, stressing that the government itself should prioritize funding and securing essential services rather than placing the onus on citizens.

Others voiced concerns that emphasizing the possibility of national crises could undermine consumer confidence amid ongoing economic uncertainty. Critics warned that while household preparedness is sensible, the government’s messaging should be balanced to avoid causing unnecessary alarm.

The government also announced that RAF Chinook helicopters and A400M aircraft will be equipped to assist with wildfire response in difficult terrain, a move welcomed by regional leaders following recent severe summer fires. Greater coordination between fire services, military assets, and local authorities is expected to enhance the UK’s ability to manage natural disasters.

Overall, the campaign reflects a multifaceted approach to national resilience, combining individual readiness, industrial capacity building, enhanced infrastructure protection, and military modernization amid evolving security challenges.