How to Prepare for Emergencies: Cash, Supplies and a Half-Full Fuel Tank

Although in recent years more attention has been paid to individual preparedness for crisis situations, the destructive storm at the end of August showed that many residents still do not prepare ahead of time. To get through various emergencies as calmly as possible, it is advisable to keep a small amount of cash at home, have food and water supplies, and keep the car fuel tank at least half full.

These recommendations were shared on Latvian Radio’s programme “Kā labāk dzīvot” by Viktorija Gribuste, representative of the State Fire and Rescue Service, and Jānis Joksts, an expert on emergency preparedness and response.

The recent storm has highlighted the need to think about reserves for crisis situations. According to the experts, basic preparedness can make it significantly easier to cope with power outages, transport disruptions or other complications. Residents are encouraged not to rely solely on rescue services and to assess in advance what might be needed at home and in a vehicle.

Special attention should be paid to fuel reserves — it is recommended to keep the vehicle’s tank at least half full so that one can reach a necessary destination during an emergency. Water and food supplies, as well as cash, are also important, since electronic payment systems may not be available.