Start with the Be Ready basics
The government's checklist is the same for everyone: 3 litres of water per person per day for 3 days, food that needs no cooking, a torch and spare batteries, a battery or wind-up radio, a charged power bank, a first aid kit, warmth, hygiene items, cash, copies of documents, and medicines.
The extras that matter for older people
- A written list of medicines and doses, and the GP's and pharmacy's numbers
- Spare glasses and hearing aid batteries
- A torch beside the bed, so nobody walks to the fuse box in the dark
- Extra warmth: a fleece blanket, a hat and thick socks. Older people lose heat faster.
- Easy-open food: ring-pull tins and pouches, plus a tin opener anyway
- Phone numbers on paper: family, neighbours, 105 for power cuts
Setting it up together
- Put the box somewhere easyDownstairs, not in the loft. Light enough to drag, or split into two.
- Show them what's in itEspecially the radio and the torch. Wind it up together once.
- Join the Priority Services RegisterFree extra help from energy companies. How to sign up.
- Agree a check-in planWho rings whom if the power goes off, and a neighbour who can knock.
Keep it in date
Water and food have best-before dates. We print them on a card in every box and remind you before they run out, so you don't have to remember for someone else.
Questions
What should an elderly person have in an emergency kit?
The Be Ready basics (water, no-cook food, torch, radio, power bank, first aid, warmth, cash, documents and medicines), plus a written list of medicines, spare glasses or hearing aid batteries, a torch by the bed and extra warmth.
Can you send an emergency box to someone else?
Yes. Choose to send it to someone else at checkout and we deliver to their door.
Send a ready-packed box straight to their door, with a note from you.
Sources: GOV.UK Be Ready · Age UK · British Red Cross. BeReady2Day is an independent business, not part of the government.