Emergencies can happen unexpectedly. Preparing in advance can help you, your family, friends and community cope with disruption.
We recommend being prepared for at least 3 days of disruption to the everyday services we rely on.
The best way to prepare yourself, your loved ones, your business and your community is to PLAN ahead.
PLAN stands for:
- Prepare
- Look out for others
- stay Alert
- act Now
P - Prepare
Keep essential supplies at home, such as food, water, medication, a torch, batteries, a first aid kit and power banks. You can also prepare an emergency kit or grab bag in case you need to leave home quickly.
Use our emergency kit checklist to help you decide what to include.
Think about who you would contact and how, and how you would support everyone in your household if services such as electricity, water, gas or communications were disrupted.
If you live in an area at risk of flooding, make a household flood plan so you know what to do and where to get help in an emergency.
L - Look out for others
Check on friends, family and neighbours who may need extra help during an emergency.
This could include older or disabled people, or people who rely on electricity for medical or care needs.
A - stay Alert
Follow advice from trusted sources, including Central Bedfordshire Council, GOV.UK and the emergency services.
Be careful about sharing information that has not come from a trusted source.
N - act Now
Taking simple steps now can reduce stress and uncertainty if an emergency happens.
If an emergency occurs, stay calm and follow official advice. If there is an immediate risk to life, call 999.
Find out more
Find out more about how to prepare yourself, your family or business in an emergency.
For advice on preparing for emergencies and what to do during different types of emergency, visit GOV.UK Prepare.
Priority services
If you or someone in your household may be vulnerable during an emergency, you may be able to sign up for Priority Services with your utility providers.
Priority Services can provide extra support during an emergency or disruption.