British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged households across the United Kingdom to stockpile bottled water, canned food and other essential supplies sufficient to last at least three days in preparation for possible emergencies.
Speaking on Friday, October 23, 2026, Burnham said the advice followed growing concerns over extreme weather, cyberattacks and potential disruptions to essential services.
The British government has introduced emergency preparedness guidelines recommending that households maintain at least nine litres of drinking water per person, alongside non-perishable food sufficient for 72 hours.
The recommended supplies also include battery-powered radios, torches, first-aid kits, essential medication, blankets, power banks, hygiene products and cash in case electronic payment systems become unavailable.
Burnham explained that the guidance was intended to help families manage unexpected disruptions, including prolonged power outages, severe storms and interruptions to food supplies.
“It’s not about panic buying,” the prime minister said, urging households to take reasonable precautions against emergencies.
The announcement comes as storms affect parts of Britain, causing electricity disruptions, while government officials warn of increasing cyber threats to critical infrastructure and food supply networks.
The National Audit Office recently warned that Britain’s food supply chain faces growing risks from cyberattacks and climate-related disruptions, calling for stronger measures to protect essential supplies.
However, opposition Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch questioned the government’s approach, arguing that greater attention should be directed towards national defence, cybersecurity and infrastructure protection.
Burnham maintained that the government was taking steps to improve national preparedness, adding that households should gradually build emergency supplies according to their needs and financial circumstances.
