Motorists across the UK are being urged to keep a stock of ten essential items in their vehicles in case they are delayed or stranded by severe weather, unexpected delays, or infrastructure failures. The guidance forms part of the newly launched "Be Ready" public awareness campaign, spearheaded by Security Minister Dan Jarvis and the Cabinet Office.
Campaign aims to align UK with European neighbours
The initiative brings the UK into alignment with European neighbours, encouraging drivers to be properly equipped and prepared if everyday travel is temporarily disrupted by severe storms, heavy snow, or major road incidents. It highlights simple, often cost-free steps members of the public can take to prepare for emergencies like extreme weather or infrastructure failures.
The updated framework outlines a checklist of ten key items every UK driver should keep in their vehicle:
- Torch – To provide essential light if you are stranded or experiencing a breakdown in the dark.
- In-car phone chargers or power bank – To keep mobile phones and essential communication devices fully powered.
- Warm clothes and blankets – To protect against dropping temperatures if heating fails or you are stuck for extended periods.
- High-visibility clothing – Ensuring you can be easily seen by other motorists and emergency services if you need to exit your vehicle.
- Jump leads – To help restart a flat battery in cold or adverse conditions.
- Food and drink – Sustenance and hydration supplies to keep you going if your journey is significantly prolonged.
- First aid kit – Stocked with basic medical supplies to treat minor injuries.
- Shovel – A crucial tool for clearing snow or digging your tyres out if stuck in mud or wintry conditions.
- Fully charged phone and charger – As part of your core kit to maintain contact with loved ones and emergency services.
- Essential medication – Ensuring critical personal supplies are close to hand if travel plans are severely disrupted.
Security Minister urges public to follow advice
Speaking about the wider rollout, Mr Jarvis said the campaign is designed to reduce pressure on emergency services during crises. "Those who can follow this advice should follow this advice," he said. "By taking simple steps to be ready for everyday emergencies like severe storms, people can reduce pressure on emergency services, helping them prioritise people who need more support in an emergency."
The "Be Ready" campaign continues to build momentum, with hundreds of organisations supporting the messaging across their networks to help improve resilience across the nation's roads and transport network. Over the coming weeks, advertising campaigns on radio and social media will specifically target groups that may be more vulnerable during unexpected disruptions, such as older people and families with young children.
Campaign follows Storm Boelo disruption
The new campaign comes as Greater Manchester was battered by wind and rain over the weekend. Storm Boelo wreaked havoc on much of the country for two days. Multiple flights were cancelled and "do not travel" warnings issued as wind gusts of up to 65mph battered the region, which came under a yellow weather warning for wind.
A rest centre was set up at Ashton Leisure Centre after damage to an electricity pole on Slag Lane left around 200 homes in the area without power.
