Be Ready is the government’s preparedness campaign that is encouraging everyone to take simple, practical steps to help people prepare for emergencies. From severe weather to cyber-attacks, emergencies can disrupt the services you rely on, like your phone, power, water and the internet. Being prepared helps you manage while help reaches those who are most in need.

It is important to note that the campaign is not linked to any specific threat or increased risk. Instead, it forms part of a long-term programme to strengthen community resilience and encourage practical preparedness as part of everyday life.

Check if you are eligible for the Priority Services Register

The first phase of the Be Ready campaign focuses on encouraging people to sign up to the Priority Services Register (PSR).

The PSR is a free service that helps gas, electricity and water companies identify customers who may need extra support during an outage or disruption to services. You may be eligible if you:

• are of pensionable age
• have a disability or long-term health condition
• have young children
• rely on medical equipment
• have specific communication or accessibility needs

Registering can help utility providers offer additional support during emergencies, making it easier for those most at risk to access assistance when they need it.

Visit the Be Ready page on the government website to check whether you are eligible for the Priority Services Register and access practical advice for preparing your household.

Other simple steps you can take

Keep enough essentials for three days

Consider keeping a small supply of everyday essentials at home, including bottled water and long-life food, to help you manage during short-term disruptions. You do not need to buy everything at once. Adding an extra item to your regular shop can help you build up supplies over time.

Support your community

Preparing for emergencies does not have to cost money. Check what you already have, speak to neighbours who might need additional support, share contact details and discuss how your community could help one another during periods of disruption.

Further information

Find out how the North Yorkshire Local Resilience Forum works with emergency services and partners to plan for, respond to and help communities recover from major emergencies across York and North Yorkshire.