Low-data edition · Version 1.0.8 · Independent global guidance · Updated 28 August 2026

Low-data emergency preparedness guide

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Not a live alert service. Contact local emergency services if there is immediate danger. Follow verified evacuation orders and immediate hazard warnings.

Start now

Choose a household contact outside your area.
Choose a nearby meeting point and one outside your neighbourhood.
Write important numbers and medical needs on paper.
Gather a torch, radio, charging cable, power bank and first-aid supplies.
Count safe drinking water and plan for babies, illness, heat and pets.

Water

Keep water in clean, food-grade containers in a cool, dark place. Treat local amounts as a starting point and add a margin for heat, illness, work and pets. Boiling does not remove fuel, toxic chemicals or radioactive contamination. Obey a verified do-not-drink or do-not-use notice.

Power and information

Charge devices early and conserve power.
Find the original alert. Check its issuer, date, location and whether it is an order, warning or recommendation.
Keep a battery or wind-up radio.
Never use generators, barbecues or fuel-burning heaters indoors.

Earthquakes and aftershocks

During shaking, Drop, Cover and Hold On. Do not run outside.
After shaking, check injuries, fire, gas, fallen electricity lines, leaking water and structural movement.
If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave. Do not use flames, switches or appliances.
After strong or long coastal shaking, follow local natural-warning guidance and move inland or uphill immediately.

People and access

Plan for mobility, communication, medicine, powered equipment, sensory needs, care, language, pets and accessible transport. Ask people what support they want; do not assume.

Mind and morale

Check immediate danger, name the next three actions and contact someone.
Protect food, water, medicine, sleep and rest because exhausted people make more mistakes.
Seek urgent professional help if someone cannot stay safe or may harm themselves or another person.

Source rule

Cross-check general guidance and keep a fallback. Treat verified lawful orders, immediate hazard warnings and qualified medical instructions as time-critical unless they would create an obvious and immediate danger.