Dutch authorities advise households to be able to manage for at least 72 hours. But what does that look like in practice? Planning the days in advance helps you stay calm and use your supplies sensibly.
Here is a simple day-by-day guide for a long power cut or similar disruption.
The First Hours: Assess and Settle
- Check that everyone is safe and give first aid where needed.
- Find out what is happening through a battery radio and NL-Alert.
- Gather your emergency bag, torches, water and blankets in one place.
- Decide whether to stay or leave, and tell your contact person what you are doing.
Day 1: Get Organised
- Set up one room as your base: warm, away from hazards and easy to keep clean.
- Save phone battery with low-power mode and check the news only once an hour.
- Eat food from the fridge first, then from the freezer, then non-perishables. Keep fridge and freezer doors closed.
- Keep track of your water so you can drink enough without running out.
Day 2: Keep a Routine
- Keep a rhythm of meals, rest and daylight walks, especially with children.
- Check on neighbours and share reliable information.
- Keep up hygiene with wipes and hand gel, and bag up waste.
- Keep an eye on older people, babies and anyone who needs medication.
Day 3: Review and Decide
- Check how much water, food and medication is left.
- Decide whether to move to relatives or an official shelter, and follow instructions from the authorities.
- If power returns, reconnect appliances gradually and check the safety of food from the fridge and freezer.
After 72 Hours
A kit buys you time, not forever. By day three, the authorities will normally have organised help or updated their guidance. Afterwards, replace what you used, review what worked and update your plan. A LifeBag is built around this 72-hour period, with water, food, light and first aid in one bag.
This guide is general information. Always follow the instructions of the authorities.
