US, Europe, Japan urge households to prepare emergency stockpiles from 7 to 10 days. Here's what you need

The United States, the UK, Japan and several European countries have issued guidance urging households to prepare for emergencies by keeping essential supplies at home. While US civilian guidance recommends preparing to manage for several days during potential emergencies, including natural hazards and man-made disasters, recommendations in other countries range from 72 hours to around two weeks.

The US has also reportedly outlined plans for military bases to operate independently for up to 90 days. Separately, the UK has updated its Be Ready campaign, advising households to keep enough essential supplies to manage for three days if normal services are disrupted. Japan is expected to announce a plan on November 2.

Other countries and regions that have issued similar preparedness guidance include Germany (up to 10 days), Norway (seven days), Finland (72 hours), France (72 hours), the European Union (at least 72 hours), Switzerland (approximately one week of food), Ireland (three days), Sweden (one week), Czechia (72 hours) and Lithuania (72 hours).


Norway's guidance says households should prepare for emergencies caused by "extreme weather, pandemics, accidents, sabotage and, in the worst case, acts of war".

How to prepare an emergency stockpile

1. Water

Water should be the first priority when preparing an emergency stockpile. The UK's emergency-preparedness guidance recommends storing three litres of drinking water per person per day, with additional supplies for cooking and washing.

2. Food

Choose food with a long shelf life that does not require refrigeration or cooking. Examples include canned meat, fish and vegetables, dried fruit, nuts, crackers and other ready-to-eat foods. Check expiry dates regularly and replace items as needed.

3. Power and communication

Keep essential equipment such as power banks, charging cables, torches, spare batteries and a battery-powered or wind-up radio. These can help you stay informed and maintain communication during power cuts or network disruptions.

4. Medicines and first aid

Keep prescribed medicines, a first-aid kit, sterile gauze, bandages, medical tape, a thermometer and suitable antiseptic products. Include any other medical supplies that household members regularly need.

5. Hygiene, cash and documents

Stock up on soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes and other personal hygiene products. Keep some cash in small denominations, along with copies of important documents such as identification papers, insurance policies and medical prescriptions.

What else should you keep?

Check your country's official emergency-preparedness guidance for additional recommendations. In colder regions, for example, warm clothing, blankets and suitable heating supplies may be essential. Firewood or other fuel should be stored only where it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Households with pets should also maintain an adequate supply of pet food and any necessary animal medicines. Books, playing cards and other simple entertainment can help keep family members occupied during prolonged disruptions.

The aim is to build a practical stockpile that meets your household's needs without unnecessary purchases. Start with the essentials, add supplies gradually and rotate food and medicines according to their storage requirements.