UK unveils 'Be Ready' plan to help households cope with utility and internet outages

The British government has introduced a new “Be Ready” plan aimed at improving household resilience to temporary disruptions in gas, water, electricity and internet services. The guidance suggests steps such as joining the Priority Services Register and keeping a modest supply of non‑perishable food and water, with a target of three days of self‑sufficiency. Over 500 charities, private firms and other organisations have pledged to share the campaign materials locally, and radio and social‑media adverts will be rolled out in the coming weeks, focusing on families with young children and older adults.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis and British Red Cross director Laura Scott said the scheme could ease pressure on emergency responders and help vulnerable residents. The initiative follows similar advice previously issued by Norway’s Directorate for Civil Protection, which urged citizens to maintain a seven‑day emergency reserve of food, water and heating supplies.