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Finland's National Preparedness Day is a reminder of what every home should have — just in case

People should have enough supplies in stock to last at least 72 hours in case of an emergency such as a natural disaster or a military attack.

Otsalamppu, tulitikut, radio, vesikanisteri ja ruokaa.
The Finnish National Rescue Association (SPEK) has noticed an increased interest in their preparedness courses in recent months. Image: Lehtikuva
Yle News

Tuesday marks National Preparedness Day, the first of its kind in Finland.

The date of 7 February (7.2) was chosen to remind people in Finland that they should be able to manage without utilities for at least 72 hours, if there is an emergency such as a natural disaster or a military attack.

"Many will still remember storm Tapani from ten years ago," SPEK's Head of Training Anssi Lamminen said, adding that "of course, we are also not isolated from world politics, so a national preparedness day like this is a good wake-up call. Everyone should think about whether they have everything they need at home in case of an emergency."

The Finnish National Rescue Association (SPEK) reported an increased interest in preparedness courses among people in Finland last year, with the number of participants quadrupling compared to the previous year.

The courses teach the basic principles of preparedness, including the things everyone should have at home to be able to manage for 72 hours completely on their own.

”Not just torches and food, but also, for example, medicines and water," Lamminen said.

Here is the full list of recommended supplies:

  • Water containers (clean and with a lid)
  • Food that is easy to prepare and suitable for all family members
  • Food for pets
  • Battery-powered radio (and batteries)
  • Battery-powered torch (and batteries)
  • A back-up power supply for charging your phone, for example
  • A camping stove and matches
  • Cash
  • Essential medicines
  • Iodine tablets
  • Hygiene supplies
  • First aid supplies
  • Portable fire extinguisher/extinguishing blanket

February also marks National Emergency Number Day, on 11 February, after the Finnish national emergency number, 112. The tradition dates back to 1997.

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