Nearly 450,000,000 people warned to prepare '72 hour survival kits' following growing tensions in Europe
The European Union asks people to ready "survival kits" lasting at least 72 hours because of dangers the continent faces. Families should stock necessities - including food, medicine, bottled water, flashlights and money - ready for use during rising global tensions.
This initiative forms part of the EU's readiness plan, as the organization warned about "increasingly complicated crises and challenges that cannot be overlooked."
"From rising political tensions and conflicts, mixed and cybersecurity dangers, foreign information manipulation and interference, to environmental shifts and growing natural disasters, the EU must be prepared to shield its citizens and the essential social functions vital for democracy and everyday life," the EU stated.
Consequently, almost 450,000,000 individuals have been asked to take "active steps" and help ensure they are prepared for any situation.
"We tell member states: 72 hours of self-reliance is our suggestion," the EU commissioner for readiness and crisis management, Hadja Lahbib, informed reporters on Wednesday (26 March).
When questioned about items people should include in their survival kits, she pointed them to her social media account to view a "what's in my bag: survival edition" video she created.
The lighthearted video shows Lahbib revealing "essential" items in her emergency bag that would help her survive for at least 72 hours. She packed her eyewear, placed her personal papers in a waterproof container, and stressed the need for "light" - whether a flashlight, matches, or a lighter.
Additionally, she explained people should have ample water, medicine and food, while Lahbib mentioned a Swiss Army knife would be useful too.
She said: "18 tools in just one knife. A necessity," before explaining why physical money matters instead of depending on digital banking.
"During a crisis, cash rules and your credit card might simply be a piece of plastic," the crisis commissioner added, while saying: "A charger and a power bank, because a dead phone is a dead end."
Lahbib also recommended including playing cards and perhaps a small radio, as "some distraction never harmed anyone" in a crisis, before concluding: "Be prepared, be safe."
Though her suggestions appeared in the video, she said each of the 27 member states should decide what they need in their survival kits "based on the political and strategic position they occupy."
"The threats Europe faces today are more complicated than before, and they all connect to each other," Lahbib explained. "Understanding emergency procedures, practicing different situations, also helps prevent panic. These steps complement national plans. "We aim to coordinate better and support member states with their strategies." Lahbib believes this preparation will help people avoid chaos.
Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, commented on the survival kit plan: "New situations demand improved readiness in Europe.
"Our community members, countries, and enterprises need proper tools to both prevent emergencies and respond quickly when disasters occur.
"Households in flood areas should understand emergency actions when water levels increase.
"Quick alert systems can save valuable time for regions fighting wildfires. Europe stands prepared to assist Member States and reliable partners nearby to protect lives and resources."
Officials also mention a possible guidebook distribution that would explain how European families can prepare for "various emergencies, from potential conflicts to environmental catastrophes, disease outbreaks and digital attacks."
