Food safety
Fridge first, freezer second, cupboard last
In a power cut, eat chilled food first. A closed fridge stays cold for about 4 hours; a full freezer for around 48 hours. Keep doors shut.
Useful tips
Know before the lights go out
Food safety
If in doubt, throw it out
Discard chilled meat, fish, dairy and leftovers above 8°C for more than 4 hours.
Food safety
Buy what you'd usually eat
The guidance recommends food you already eat, so you rotate stock into normal meals and nothing is wasted.
Cooking
Never use a stove or BBQ indoors
Camping stoves and barbecues produce carbon monoxide. Cook outside or by an open door, and have a CO alarm.
Cooking
One-pot, low-water meals
Choose tins that only need warming, quick-cook pasta and pre-cooked rice to save gas and water.
Cooking
Pre-cooked pouches are safe cold
Microwave rice, grains and lentil pouches are fully cooked and can be eaten straight from the pack.
Water
3 litres per person, per day
That's for drinking only. Keep extra for cooking, brushing teeth and washing hands.
Water
Fill up early
If a disruption is forecast, fill bottles, jugs and the bath (for flushing).
Getting ready
Build it gradually
Add one or two items to your normal shop. Check cupboards first — you may already have much of it.
Getting ready
Check every six months
Set a reminder to check expiry dates and swap items into everyday meals.
Getting ready
Talk to your neighbours
Swap contact details and agree who might need checking on — especially older or vulnerable neighbours.
Getting ready
Write down key info
Paper copies of emergency numbers, medication and doses, and the FM frequencies of your local radio station.