72-hour readiness: how to manage three days
Updated · 6 min read
The authorities recommend that every household can manage on its own for at least three days if supplies such as water, power or heat fail.[1] That is the idea behind "72-hour readiness": the first three days, where you have to stand on your own feet while society gets the situation under control.
In short: 72-hour readiness means you can manage on your own for three days with water, food, light, warmth and information - without outside help. It only takes a few things prepared in advance.[1]
Why three days exactly?
The three days are not a random number. It is the period the authorities point to as what each household should be able to cover itself, so that help can reach those who need it most.[1] If you can meet your own needs for that time, you take pressure off both your neighbours and the emergency services.
72 hours sounds like a lot, but it comes down to a few things prepared in advance. You don't need to stockpile - you need the right things ready.
Water for three days
Start with the water. Count on roughly three litres of water per person per day, that is around nine litres per person across the three days.[1] Fill clean containers and store them somewhere dark and cool, so they are ready when you need them.
Food that needs no power
Keep food at home for three days that lasts without refrigeration and can be eaten without cooking - for example canned goods and crispbread, which need neither a fridge, a hob nor an oven.[1] Remember a manual can opener.
Light, power and information
If the power goes out, you need to make light and stay in touch. The authorities point to a flashlight, spare batteries and a power bank or battery pack for your phone.[1] A battery, hand-crank or solar-powered FM radio keeps you up to date if the mobile network fails.[1]
If you use candles, they must stand stably and well clear of curtains and anything else that can catch fire.[1]
Warmth, if it turns cold
If the heating fails in winter, it comes down to holding on to your body heat. The authorities recommend using the household's blankets, duvets and warm clothing, and gathering everyone in one room.[1]
First aid and medicine
Keep your necessary medication for at least three days at home, and put together a first-aid kit with plasters, bandages and a disinfectant.[1] Iodine tablets are taken only on the Danish Health Authority's instructions and never on your own initiative.[2]
Put the three days together as a fixed kit you don't have to think about day to day - then you're ready the day it counts.
Ready for 72 hours
See our 72-hour kit, put together according to the authorities' advice.
If you want the full checklist point by point, read on here: Emergency supply list: what to keep at home
Frequently asked questions
What does 72-hour readiness mean?
It is the idea that your household should be able to manage on its own for the first three days if water, power or heat fails, while society gets the situation under control.
Why three days exactly?
Three days is the period the authorities point to as what each household should be able to cover on its own, so help can reach those who need it most.
How much water do I need for three days?
Count on roughly three litres of water per person per day - around nine litres per person across the three days. Fill clean containers and store them somewhere dark and cool.
Sources
- [1]Styrelsen for Samfundssikkerhed (samsik.dk): Sådan forbereder du dig
- [2]Sundhedsstyrelsen: Jod og jodtabletter