Europe’s Quiet Alarm: Why Emergency Kits Matter Now

Flavia L. Lamattina

On April 28, many in Portugal felt thrust into a new reality. What began as a temporary, unexpected nationwide power outage quickly turned into a wake-up call. While for some it was merely an inconvenience, for others—completely unprepared—it highlighted just how fragile daily life can become when the systems we rely on suddenly stop working. In conversations I heard that day, a clear picture emerged: families without cash at home, cars with empty tanks, people rushing out in search of non-perishable food, and others completely lost without GPS guiding them. Phones were down, internet connections disappeared, and there was even talk of water supply disruptions if the blackout extended. It only lasted hours—but what if it had lasted days?
But the warnings had been there. Since February, official European agencies have been urging households to create emergency kits—with essentials like water, canned food, flashlights, radios, and medications. It’s not a message of panic, but of calm readiness. As global instability grows, from climate disasters and cyberattacks to military conflicts—being prepared is becoming less of a personal choice and more of a shared civic responsibility.
The renewed focus on personal preparedness isn’t coming out of nowhere. Europe is navigating a complex web of challenges that feel more immediate than ever. The ongoing war in Ukraine has reignited fears about regional security, while rising tensions with Russia have underscored the need for civil resilience. At the same time, the continent is facing more frequent and severe climate disasters—record-breaking heatwaves, catastrophic floods, and destructive wildfires are becoming the new normal. Not adding scenarios of cyberattacks targeting energy grids and public services, reminding that a strong society begins with prepared individuals. Across Europe, civil protection agencies are quietly but consistently delivering the same message: be ready to take care of yourself and your family for at least several days in the event of a crisis.
Here in Portugal, the government is encouraging citizens to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. While the tone of these campaigns is calm and non-alarmist, the implication is clear: in an uncertain world, personal preparedness is no longer optional. So, what exactly should go into an emergency kit? The basics are simple but vital. Authorities recommend storing enough drinking water—about two liters per person per day—for at least ten days, along with a supply of non-perishable food that doesn’t require cooking, for both the humans and the pets in the household. A well-stocked first aid kit, flashlights with spare batteries, and a portable radio—ideally hand-crank or battery-powered—are also key. In today’s tech-driven world, power banks or solar chargers can keep communication lines open when the grid goes down.
Don’t forget personal essentials: prescription medications, hygiene items, important documents, and a local map in case GPS fails. Many preparedness guides also suggest packing copies of IDs or passports, some cash, an emergency blanket, and basic tools like a knife, lighter, or duct tape. With climate-related events on the rise, even dust masks or smoke filters can be worth having on hand. The goal isn’t to create a bunker—it’s to build a buffer that gives you time, clarity, and control when the unexpected happens. Also consider packing lightweight clothing, light jackets, and thermal blankets to handle sudden temperature changes.
Staying informed is just as important as being equipped. In Lisbon, residents can stay informed through a dedicated Civil Protection alert system. To subscribe, simply send an SMS with the text AVISOSLX to the number 927 944 000 (standard rate SMS, no added cost). This service provides timely updates in the event of emergencies, helping citizens respond quickly and stay safe. But perhaps the most powerful tool is connection. Talk to neighbors, share information, and make plans together—resilience grows stronger when it’s shared.
Ultimately, preparedness is not panic—it’s peace of mind. It’s about creating a sense of control in an uncertain world, not out of fear, but out of care for yourself and those around you. In a time when global risks feel closer than ever, taking simple steps to get ready is a quiet but meaningful act of calm, confidence, and civic responsibility. And that’s something we can all stand to carry with us. If you want to deepen your knowledge about emergency kits and how to prepare for unexpected situations, the Portuguese Red Cross offers valuable resources: www.cruzvermelha.pt