A new emergency preparedness campaign has been launched to help households stay safe during unexpected events.
Backed by Jayne Kirkham, MP for Truro and Falmouth, the Government’s ‘Be Ready’ campaign aims to raise awareness of simple steps people can take to prepare for everyday emergencies, following recent storms Goretti and Austen.
The advice includes writing down key contact details, agreeing on a meeting point with loved ones, and signing up to the Priority Services Register (PSR), which helps ensure those in need receive urgent support during power outages.
Ms Kirkham said: "Storms and floods really impact communities across Cornwall.
"We’ve just been hit by Storm Austen, and there’s been another swathe of power cuts across the region after strong gusts have pulled trees onto power cables.
"As we know from Storm Goretti, it is so important that vulnerable people can be located and supported as quickly as possible, so water, food, medication and anything else that is needed can be provided quickly.
"That’s why the ‘Be Ready’ campaign is essential; it’s got some good advice on how we can make ourselves more connected and prepared—something we can all benefit from."
The campaign encourages households to keep three days’ worth of essentials on hand, including non-perishable food, bottled water, a torch, a battery-powered radio, a basic first aid kit, and warm blankets.
It also advises knowing how to turn off water, gas, and electricity supplies in case of emergency.
She said: "Many of our local parish and town councils are also making Emergency Plans to identify safe spaces and store supplies and powerpacks so the community will be ready to act together in future storms.
"I am also pushing for an improved and backed-up mobile network so that residents are not stranded when their broadband goes down."
The Government has partnered with organisations such as the British Red Cross and consulted with more than 500 key groups, including emergency services and local resilience forums, to shape the campaign.
The campaign sits alongside wider investment, including £1.4 billion in flood defences, £2.6 billion to improve rail infrastructure, and £24 billion for road upgrades to protect against severe weather.
Share