In its newly released campaign, the Government has urged households to prepare for three days without essential services. The Be Ready campaign, launched in October 2026, encourages people to stockpile essentials in preparation for potential emergencies, including cyberattacks, power cuts and extreme weather. Its official checklist includes bottled water, non-perishable food, torches, batteries, blankets, a radio, cash, important documents and essential medication. However, experts say there are several less obvious additions households should consider, from emergency whistles to basic repair equipment.
The advice comes as new research suggests many people have yet to act on the Government's warnings. A survey of 2,087 adults across Great Britain, conducted by Find Out Now for The Grocer on November 3, found that while 84% were aware of the Be Ready campaign, just 23% had bought additional essentials after hearing its advice. Meanwhile, 73% said they had taken no action to stock up.
So, what else should households consider adding to their emergency supplies?
1. An emergency whistle
Greg Potter, commercial sales manager at army uniform supplier Cadet Direct, recommends keeping an emergency whistle in the household kit.
He warned that shouting for help can quickly become exhausting if someone becomes trapped, injured or separated from others during an emergency.
He said: "A small emergency whistle allows people to attract attention without using as much energy, making it a useful addition to any household emergency kit or evacuation bag."
2. Waterproof bags and pouches
Water damage could put important belongings at risk, especially during flooding or an evacuation.
Potter recommends waterproof pouches and dry bags to protect identification, medication and smaller electronic devices.
He said they are "worth adding to an emergency kit, especially if you could be at risk of flooding".
3. Duct tape
Tom Rogers, home expert at Manage At Home, believes duct tape can be used for temporary repairs, such as patching leaks and sealing broken windows.
He said: "Duct tape can temporarily seal a broken window, secure a loose fitting, or patch a leak - simple fixes that could prevent a small problem becoming a much bigger one during a storm or disruption."
4. A multi-tool or penknife
Rogers also recommends keeping a basic multi-tool or penknife alongside emergency supplies.
Its versatility could prove useful when shops and other services are unavailable, from opening packaging to carrying out minor repairs.
5. Cord and basic repair supplies
Potter suggests adding cord and a basic repair kit, which can help secure loose belongings, repair damaged bags and make temporary fixes to equipment.
These items take up little storage space but could become particularly useful when supplies are difficult to access.
6. Sturdy footwear
People can become so focused on food and water that they forget what they might need to wear if forced to leave home.
Potter recommends sturdy, comfortable footwear to help people navigate debris and uneven ground, reducing discomfort and the risk of injury.
7. A printed home insurance policy
Mark Finley, printing expert at Choice Stationery, warns that households could struggle to access important information if a cyberattack or prolonged power cut disrupts online services.
He recommends printing a home insurance policy, which can provide an insurer's contact details, policy information and emergency claims number if a property is damaged.
He also suggests keeping bank contact details, mortgage or tenancy information, boiler warranties and pet records on paper.
He said: "Paperwork rarely seems like a priority in emergency planning. But if something does go wrong, it could be one of the most useful things to have with you."