Photographs: Pexels
Text: Jess Hearne
The Danish government has released a series of recommendations to ensure that people across the country are better prepared for a national crisis and can survive on their own for at least three days. These measures, issued by the Danish Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), aim to enable households to remain self-sufficient during emergencies, allowing authorities to focus on aiding the vulnerable and restoring normalcy.
Essential supplies: water and food
Each household is advised to store nine litres of water per person, reflecting an estimated daily usage of three litres per individual. This amount accounts for drinking, cooking and hygiene needs. Households with pets should consider storing additional water. The water should be kept in a dark, cool place and replaced when its best-before date expires.
For food supplies, households should maintain a stock sufficient for three days, prioritising non-perishable items that do not require refrigeration or cooking. Canned goods, crispbread and other foods with long shelf lives are ideal. Regular checks and timely replacements of these items are crucial. Additionally, having a camp stove or another independent cooking device is recommended for preparing meals or boiling water if the electricity supply is disrupted.
Medical and hygiene supplies
Those on medication should ensure they have at least a three-day supply at all times. A fully stocked first aid kit is essential, including plasters, dressings and disinfectants. Iodine tablets should be available for everyone under 40 and for pregnant and breastfeeding women to protect against nuclear incidents.
Basic hygiene supplies such as toilet paper, hand sanitiser, soap, wet wipes and female hygiene products should be on hand. Furthermore, households should stock batteries, flashlights, matches and candles to deal with power outages. Blankets and warm clothing are advised for maintaining warmth during cold weather, especially if heating systems fail. In such scenarios, staying in one room can conserve heat.
Communication and financial preparedness
It is recommended to have some emergency cash available, as electronic payment systems might be inaccessible during a crisis. A battery-operated radio is crucial for receiving information, as Denmark’s national broadcaster will provide critical updates via radio. A power bank is also advised to keep mobile phones and other electronic devices charged, ensuring continuous communication and access to information. Additionally, physical payment cards with remembered PIN codes should be kept handy, along with a small amount of cash in coins and small denomination notes.
Guidance and psychological preparedness
In any crisis, remaining calm and vigilant against misinformation is paramount. The Danish Emergency Management Agency advises the public to be aware of the various triggers for crises, which can include natural events like extreme weather, human acts like cyber-attacks or sabotage and technical issues or accidents.
At a briefing, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasised that Denmark is not under immediate threat of a conventional military attack but highlighted the risk of hybrid attacks, which could disrupt utilities. He reiterated the importance of having sufficient supplies to manage for three days, allowing authorities to stabilise the situation and assist those most in need.
Practical implementation
DEMA’s website, now supplying the relevant information in English, provides detailed guidance on these recommendations. It stresses the importance of storing drinking water in approved containers, maintaining a stock of non-perishable foods and keeping essential medicines and first aid supplies. Hygiene and warmth are also priorities, with advice on using household items to stay warm and safe use of candles and other heat sources.
By following these recommendations, Danish households can better cope with potential crises, from natural disasters to technical failures. This preparedness not only ensures individual safety and comfort but also aids national efforts to manage emergencies more effectively. In a world where the frequency and severity of crises are increasing, such proactive measures are essential. The Danish government’s clear and practical advice serves as a crucial guide for all citizens, reinforcing the importance of readiness in the face of uncertainty.
The full PDF issued by DEMA (in English) can be found here: