Brits were warned to prepare ‘72-hour survival kit’ as UK told to ‘actively prepare’ for war

Residents across the UK have previously been told to prepare a survival kit in case a worldwide conflict broke out, and we might be edging ever closer to the possibility.

A harrowing document released by the government this week revealed that we will have to 'actively prepare' for war, as global tensions continue to rise.

Titled 'National Security Strategy 2025: Security for the British People in a Dangerous World', it warned of a potential attack from adversaries that could come via a variety of methods, including AI, cyber-related, or nuclear attacks.

Available to read in full on the British government website, a 'wartime scenario' was mentioned as a possibility, adding that the nation is under direct threat 'for the first time in many years'.

While US President Donald Trump announced that Iran and Israel had agreed on a ceasefire on 24 June, it was reported that both nations fired missiles following the agreement.

You'll need to include a number of items in your kit (Getty Stock Photo)

Tensions between the Middle Eastern countries continue to rise, with Israel claiming that Iran had violated the ceasefire and looked to hit back.

The 79-year-old was so angry with the nations' actions in fact, that he even swore on live TV, adding that he was 'not happy' with Israel in particular.

These measures were put in place after the US fired missiles at Iranian air bases last weekend, in efforts to destroy their nuclear facilities.

Iran then hit US bases in Qatar and Iraq in retaliation, as talk of a third world war continues, especially given the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

As the threat of an all-out war goes on, Brits have been reminded to pack a '72-hour survival kit' for the most dire of circumstances.

Every item required in a '72-hour survival kit'

Baked Beans will be your best mate (Getty Stock Image)

According to the City of Calgary in Canada, there are a number of things you must include in an emergency 72-hour kit, which you can find listed below.

Food

Emergency food supplies will include canned items, on the most part, with distant expiry dates.

Make sure the can opener's packed in there, too.

Bottled water

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in conditions where you could be going days on rationed food.

A couple of litres a day keeps the dehydration away (Getty Stock Image)

It is recommended that you have one and a half to two litres of water a day, which is around six to seven cups a day, to stop yourself from being dehydrated.

While you can survive three to five days without water, it's probably best not to.

The advice says that you should replace water bottles 'every time you change your clocks', adding: "If necessary, you can use the water in your toilet tank or hot water heater."

First aid kit

It's always best to come prepared, as you don't know what you'll really need in an emergency situation.

A first aid kit is crucial to have (Getty Stock Image)

You should have one to hand anyway, but this is what must be included in one:

• Gauze pads

• Gloves

• Different bandages

• Antiseptic

• Tweezers

• Scissors

• Needle and thread

• Instant ice packs

• Survival blanket, if you have space

Medication

Packing your prescription medicine is important (Getty Stock Image)

Having yours or any family member's prescription medication to hand is advised, meaning you'll have to swap the medication out regularly when the kit isn't being used.

If not, it is advised that you bring the medication with you when evacuating, while it is suggested to 'include vitamins and medications to guard you against getting sick'.

Battery pack

Keeping your phone alive could keep you alive (Getty Stock Image)

While people may want to keep their phones alive to keep scrolling on social media, it's important to keep it charged in case you need to call someone, or for an emergency.

The website echoes that sentiment, adding: "If phone lines are too busy, you can still receive updates and alerts on your mobile device."

Money in small bills and coins

Keeping small notes and coins around could prove to be a huge help (Getty Stock Image)

Cash will never die, as many older people say.

Contactless may go out in an evacuation scenario, with the website advising to keep a little change lying around, in case the electricity cuts off.

Key documents

Packing your passport will be important if you need to leave the country (Getty Stock Image)

Passport and ID is key in case you'll need to leave the country, though photocopies of the documents may also do the trick.

Other items needed

You can pack a lot more, if you have the space (Getty Stock Image)

• Warm clothes, blankets and sleeping bags

• Non-power consuming entertainment likes board games, cards or books

• Supplies for your baby and pet

• Dust mask and dusk tape to help keep your shelter in place

• A whistle to help attract attention if needed

• Personal sanitation items, such as hand sanitiser, masks, and wet wipes

As for storing your supplies, it is advised that 'supplies should be stored in a waterproof, wheeled suitcase or container'.

They also highlighted that your kit should be portable, if not it defeats the purpose.