As the saying goes, hope for the best but prepare for the worst. In the UK, emergencies can come in many forms, from natural disasters to power outages to illness outbreaks. And while we may not be able to predict when these emergencies will occur, we can prepare for them by ensuring we have an adequate supply of food. In this article, we'll explore the top emergencies that require a food supply, and provide tips on how to stock up and stay safe.

Emergency #1: Natural Disasters

The UK is no stranger to natural disasters, with flooding and severe storms being common occurrences. According to the Environment Agency, around 5.2 million properties in England are at risk of flooding. During such emergencies, it's important to have a stockpile of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried fruit, and nuts. It's also important to have a supply of clean water, as water supplies can be contaminated during floods.

Emergency #2: Power Outages

Power outages can occur for a variety of reasons, from severe weather to equipment failure. In the UK, power outages are estimated to cost businesses up to £1.5 billion per year. During power outages, it's important to avoid opening refrigerators and freezers as much as possible, as this can cause food to spoil more quickly. A stockpile of non-perishable food items such as crackers, cereal bars, and canned soups can help you weather the outage.

Emergency #3: Economic Crises

Economic crises can have a major impact on food supplies, as we saw the economy suffer in the wake of the national lockdowns in 2020. In the UK, food bank usage has risen sharply in recent years, with over 2 million emergency food parcels being given out in 2020. During an economic crisis, it's important to have a supply of non-perishable food items, and to consider growing your own food if possible.

Emergency #4: Political Unrest

Political unrest can disrupt food supplies, as we saw during the 2011 riots in the UK, when many supermarkets were looted. During political unrest, it's important to stay safe and avoid going out if possible. Having a supply of non-perishable food items can help you avoid having to leave your home during a potentially dangerous situation.

Emergency #5: Pandemics

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having a supply of non-perishable food items. During pandemics, national restrictions may be enforced, making access to food stores more difficult - having a stockpile of food items that can last for several weeks is an advantage and provides further peace of mind. 

Emergency #6: War

While we may hope that we never have to experience war on UK soil, it's important to prepare for the possibility. During wartime, food supplies can be disrupted, and it may be difficult to access fresh food. It's important to have a stockpile of non-perishable food items, as well as water, in case you need to shelter in place. It's also important to have a plan in place for what to do if you need to evacuate your home. In addition, it's important to be aware of the risks of food contamination during wartime, as food supplies may be limited and sanitation may be compromised. By taking steps to prepare for war, we can help ensure that we and our loved ones are safe and well-fed during difficult times.

Conclusion

While we may not be able to predict when emergencies will occur, we can prepare for them by ensuring we have a supply of non-perishable food items. Whether it's natural disasters, power outages, economic crises, political unrest, or pandemics, having a stockpile of food can help us weather the storm. So take some time to stock up on non-perishable food items, and stay safe during emergencies.