How to prepare for a survival situation with Ray Mears | BBC Politics Live

The UK Government’s “Be Ready” Campaign

The government’s “Be Ready” campaign has prompted increased sales of tinned food and bottled water. Survival expert Ray Mears argues that people need clearer information about the risks they are being asked to prepare for. Without it, he warns, guidance could lead to fear and panic-buying rather than informed preparation.

Practical Preparedness

Mears suggests preparing for a disruption lasting around three days, such as a loss of electricity, water, gas or sewage services. He recommends spending six hours at home with utilities switched off to identify what would be difficult, then making a practical list of needs.

Key priorities include:

• Lighting
• An up-to-date first-aid kit and first-aid training
• Water and food

Mears says four days’ worth of supplies would be preferable, if feasible. Water storage can be challenging: the government recommends three litres per person, while the World Health Organization recommends 7.5 litres. Estimates for covering all daily needs may reach 10 litres. Even a more conservative five litres per person would require substantial storage.

Public and Government Resilience

The panel agrees that household preparedness matters, but says the public needs to understand the risks and feel confident that the government is prepared too.

Stephen Kinnock describes resilience as a whole-of-society issue, particularly in light of threats to critical infrastructure and hostile state activity. Matt Vickers says people may be more likely to act if the threat is clearly explained, and argues that the government should demonstrate its own commitment through investment in defence. Henry Zeffman notes that storing the recommended amount of water would be difficult, and that food planning also involves practical considerations such as cooking.

Mears advises against panic. He argues that attacks can expose weaknesses and lead to stronger defences. He also stresses that national resilience depends on a functioning economy, thriving businesses and effective leadership, so people have the means to prepare.

Presenters and Contributors

Vicki Young (presenter), Ray Mears, Stephen Kinnock, Matt Vickers and Henry Zeffman