EU Urges Preparation: Stock Up on Supplies for 72 Hours

The European Union has called on member states to increase critical equipment stocks and encourage citizens to have at least 72 hours’ worth of essential supplies for emergencies. The EU Commission shared a new preparedness strategy with the public, focusing on complex threats and challenges such as natural disasters, wars, or geopolitical crises. The strategy aims to better prepare Europe for crises and ensure the continuity of essential services during emergencies, with minimum preparedness criteria developed for services like hospitals, schools, transportation, and telecommunications. Critical equipment and material stocks, including water, will be increased in member states, and efforts will be made to enhance public readiness for emergencies. This includes promoting the storage of basic supplies and necessities for at least 72 hours in case of emergencies. Lessons on preparedness will be integrated into school curricula, and a preparedness day will be initiated. Coordination in crisis response will be improved, with the establishment of an EU Crisis Centre to enhance integration among existing crisis structures. Civil-military cooperation will be strengthened through regular preparedness exercises bringing together armed forces, civil protection, police, healthcare workers, and firefighters across the EU. Comprehensive risk and threat assessments will be developed to help prevent crises such as natural disasters or complex threats. Emergency protocols for businesses will be created to ensure quick access to essential supplies, goods, and services, while securing critical production lines.