Everything required in a '72-hour survival kit' as Brits now urged to follow EU’s warning

The European Union has urged their 450,000,000 citizens to prepare '72-hour survival kits' in the wake of 'challenges that cannot be ignored'.

And Brits are now being told to follow suit, but for slightly different reasons.

Last week, the EU cited growing tensions in Europe, 'cybersecurity threats' and 'geopolitical conflicts' as reasons to have their survival kits ready in order 'to react swiftly when a disaster hits'.

Security advisers are now telling UK citizens to stay alert after the Daily Mail reported that a Russian spy ship, the Yantar, has been discovered in British waters.

Critical assets like gas pipelines and undersea cables are allegedly at risk of possible sabotage, with alleged energy infrastructure threats from Russia.

"We know that the Russians are active in the North Sea and have the power to cripple our energy links," a source told the outlet. "We need to become much more self-sufficient, and quickly. And households should be ready for all eventualities."

This comes after the City of Calgary in Canada has shared what items you must include in a 72-hour kit.

All items required in a '72-hour survival kit'

We can't survive without water (Getty Stock Images)

Bottled water

The bare minimum amount of water a person needs to survive per day is around 1.5 to two litres.

That's roughly six to seven cups of water a day to prevent dehydration under normal conditions. On average, you can only survive just three to five days without water.

"Ideally, you should replace the water bottles every time you change your clocks. If necessary, you can use the water in your toilet tank or hot water heater," the advice from the website reads.

As always, food is essential (Getty Stock Images)

Food

Emergency food supplies should consist of mostly canned items with long expiry dates.

Don't forget to pack your can opener.

Don't forget to take your meds (Getty Stock Images)

Medication

Be sure to pack any prescription medication that you or your family members consume on a regular basis.

The website states: "Ideally, you should swap the medication out regularly for fresh medication.

"If you cannot store extra medication in your kit, make sure you take it with you in an evacuation.

"You may also want to include vitamins and medications to guard you against getting sick."

It's always worth keeping a first aid kit around (Getty Stock Images)

First aid kit

A first aid kit is always handy to keep around, under any circumstances.

This includes:

• gloves

• gauze pads

• a variety of bandages

• antiseptic

• scissors

• tweezers

• needle and thread

• instant ice packs

• survival blanket, if space allows

We've become so reliant on our phones, and chargers (Getty Stock Images)

External battery pack or wind-up phone charger

Going three hours without your phone, let alone three days, is a nightmare for most people.

The idea of not being able to update your Instagram Story in a crisis, is a crisis in itself.

"It is important that you are able to use your cell phone to call for help or to receive information. If phone lines are too busy, you can still receive updates and alerts on your mobile device," the website adds.

Cash is needed when you can't use your card (Getty Stock Images)

Cash in small bills and coins

Cash is king, especially if the banking system ever goes out.

It's always handy, if financially possible, to keep a little lying around if the power cuts off.

Don't forget to pack important documents (Getty Stock Images)

Important documents

If you ever need to travel out of the country, you'll need important documents with you.

From a practical point of view, however, keeping photocopies around is a lot easier.

Other items:

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

• supplies for your baby and pet

• warm clothes, blankets and sleeping bags

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

• a whistle to help attract attention if needed

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

There's a lot to think about when it comes to a survival kit (Getty Stock Image)

How do I store my supplies?

The website states that 'supplies should be stored in a waterproof, wheeled suitcase or container'.

"Your kit must be portable in case you have to evacuate your home. If you have luggage, bag your supplies and store them in your luggage when you are not travelling. You can remove the bags for travel," it adds.

"Store medications, cash, and important documents in an external pouch for easy access. Your First Aid kit and water supply should also be immediately accessible.

"Make sure that you check your kit and replenish/swap supplies as needed. An easy way to remember is to check your kit when you change your clocks."