As the conflict in Iran spreads throughout the Middle East, fears are growing that the world may soon spiral into WWIII.
Keir Starmer has tried to keep the UK out of the fight, but recent strikes on an RAF base in Cyprus suggest this may not be possible if the war continues to escalate.
Although the chances of a direct attack on British soil remain low, experts have warned that Iran’s fleet of Shahed drones could strike without warning.
Now, scientists have revealed what you really need in your emergency kit if you’re prepping for WWIII.
On the government website, a ‘household emergency plan’ reveals a list of ’emergency supplies’ such as bottled water, wet wipes and non–perishable food.
But according to scientists, the list omits some important items that could be crucial for survival.
If the UK goes into lockdown, a gas–powered generator could provide a key backup power source, while a face mask could help to filter out harmful smoke.
So, if you’re thinking of getting your emergency kit ready, here’s what scientists say you’ll really need.
As the conflict in Iran spreads throughout the Middle East, fears are growing that the world may soon spiral into a WWIII. Pictured: smoke rises from a burning building hit by an Iranian drone strike in Bahrain on February 28
On the government website, a ‘household emergency plan’ reveals a list of ’emergency supplies’ such as bottled water, wet wipes and non–perishable food
The government’s website, prepare.campaign.gov.uk, aims to make sure people are aware of the risks in their local area so they can plan appropriately.
‘Emergencies happen every day in the UK and across the world,’ it explains on its website.
‘They can be caused by severe weather or other natural hazards, by deliberate actions, or as a result of accidents or infrastructure failure.
‘They can be events that happen quickly and are over in a few hours, or they can develop and continue over the course of several days, months, or sometimes even longer.’
The site links to a printable ‘household emergency plan’ that includes a list of nine ’emergency supplies’.
According to the government, you’ll need a battery or wind–up torch, a portable power bank, a battery or wind–up radio, and spare batteries.
In addition, your emergency kit should include a first aid kit, wet wipes and hand sanitiser, bottled water, non–perishable food that does not require cooking, and a tin opener.
Finally, if you have a baby, your kit should include supplies like nappies and formula.
Professor Handfield suggests including an N95 face mask in your emergency kit, in the case of a fire
However, speaking to the Daily Mail, scientists have pinpointed several key items that are misisng.
According to Robert Handfield, a professor of supply chain management at North Carolina State University, households should also consider including a gas–powered generator.
Gas–powered generators use a gas combustion engine – meaning users would also need natural gas or liquid propane as a fuel source.
‘Electricity is a fundamental need,’ Professor Handfield told the Daily Mail.
Another item that could come in handy is a chainsaw – although not for the purpose of self–defence.
‘Some people often carry a chainsaw if you are in a neighborhood with a lot of trees,’ Professor Handfield explained.
‘If they fall onto your home, it’s important to get them off.’
In addition, Professor Handfield suggests including an N95 face mask in your emergency kit, in the case of a fire.
One of the most notable omissions from the government’s list is toilet paper, although wet wipes could make a more versatile substitute.
The news comes shortlly after scientists revealed the safest place to take shelter during an air strike.
Each of Iran’s Shahed drones carries a 90kg high–explosive payload, which is enough to collapse a building with a direct hit.
That means the best place to take shelter during an air raid on British soil will be underground.
For London residents, who may find themselves at the epicentre of a potential attack, the London Underground will offer the best protection – especially at deeper stations like Hampstead Heath.
However, if you can’t make it to an underground shelter, the best thing to do is to remain indoors and prepare for the blast.
