Survive WW3 – On a Budget!
The Sun has compiled an essential nuclear emergency kit using high street purchases, and it costs less than you might expect. As Europe braces for the possibility of World War Three, citizens are being equipped with survival guides, nuclear shelters, and conscription strategies to navigate a potential Russian invasion.
With tensions escalating and fears that Vladimir Putin aims to reclaim Eastern Europe for Russia, European nations are ramping up their defenses. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, anxiety grows about Putin’s potential to intensify hostilities further. Countries across the continent are mobilizing their populations, with Britain urged to follow suit and prepare its citizens for a possible conscription.
As civilians anticipate the arrival of Russian forces, The Sun has curated a comprehensive list of items you need to survive the first 72 hours of a nuclear fallout—without breaking the bank. We ventured into local shops to assemble a survival kit, reflecting the European Union’s directive for citizens to prepare an emergency supply pack.
First on the list is a reliable torch. In the event of a nuclear strike, the power grid may be compromised, leaving you in darkness. You can find torches for around £8, many of which come with batteries included. However, it’s wise to stock up on extra batteries, which generally cost about £5. Different types of batteries are essential to power various devices.
Next, consider adding a battery-powered radio to your kit. Staying informed during such emergencies is crucial, as a radio will keep you updated on developments both locally and globally. You can purchase a decent radio for around £15 at popular retailers like Argos.
A first aid kit is another critical component of your emergency supplies. While these kits can be pricey, they are indispensable during crises. We found one at Tesco for only £12, which includes vital supplies such as face masks, foil blankets, medical scissors, and antiseptic wipes. Don’t forget to pack any personal medications you take regularly, along with extras like paracetamol and ibuprofen, as you may be confined to a shelter for an extended period.
When it comes to food, opt for non-perishable items that are high in fiber, such as beans, lentils, rice, and soups. A 500g pack of red split lentils is available at Tesco for just £2. These can be easily cooked with just water and heat, whether using a camping stove or an open flame. Chunky soups can be found for around £1.20 per can, and bulk items like tinned meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit can provide both protein and variety. Most supermarkets often have multi-buy deals, making it easier to stock up on essentials.
No survival kit is complete without an ample supply of water. The average person requires at least two liters daily, and this need increases with stress or when consuming dry food. A 12-pack of bottled water costs around £1.80 at Tesco, making it one of the first things you should secure for your emergency kit.
As you prepare your kit, don’t forget to add warm clothing such as a woolly hat, scarf, gloves, and a waterproof coat to keep you comfortable in fluctuating conditions. Depending on the season, proper clothing could be vital for your survival. We picked up a hat and gloves for £12 at SportsDirect, but budget-friendly options may also be available at discount stores like Poundland.
Lastly, consider the importance of maintaining morale. The psychological impact of living in fear underground can be significant. Activities like card games, such as Uno, priced at £8 at Argos, can provide a much-needed distraction, enhancing mental well-being and fostering social bonds, especially if you share a bunker with family or friends.
In total, our comprehensive emergency survival kit can be assembled for approximately £70.
Europe on Alert
The initiative to prepare citizens for emergencies is not merely a panic response but part of a strategic plan backed by the European Union. The EU is formally urging every household in its 27 member states to create a three-day emergency kit—not just for potential warfare but also for natural disasters and other crises.
Crisis management commissioner Hadja Lahbib emphasizes the need for “72 hours of self-sufficiency,” which is the crucial period following a disaster when state assistance may be delayed or unavailable. “Knowing what to do in case of danger and planning for different scenarios can help prevent panic,” she stated, recalling the chaos during the early days of the Covid pandemic when essential goods vanished from store shelves.
The recommended kit includes essentials such as bottled water, energy bars, torches, and even waterproof pouches for important identification documents. Additionally, the EU is considering the establishment of a National Preparedness Day across Europe, serving as an annual reminder for households to be ready for potential emergencies.
This initiative draws inspiration from the practices in war-savvy Scandinavia, where citizens in countries like Finland, Sweden, and Denmark are accustomed to preparing for potential blackouts, invasions, and worst-case scenarios. Now, the EU aims to ensure that every citizen is equipped to endure unimaginable circumstances—and The Sun’s curated kit demonstrates that you can prepare without a hefty price tag.
France Issues Invasion Survival Guide
France has joined the ranks of nations prioritizing citizen preparedness by issuing a comprehensive survival guide. This 20-page booklet will equip the French populace with strategies for defending the republic in the face of an invasion, including information on how to enlist in reserve units or local defense efforts.
The guide will also provide instructions on assembling a survival kit, emphasizing essentials such as six liters of water, canned food, batteries, and basic medical supplies. French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that advanced fighter jets, armed with next-generation hypersonic nuclear missiles, are now stationed along the border with Germany, reinforcing the need for vigilance.
Berlin is likely under the protective umbrella of France’s nuclear arsenal, with Macron vowing to respond with nuclear force if Germany is attacked, as France views such an assault as a direct threat. Poland has expressed interest in similar protection and is considering its own conscription efforts for all men. The Baltic and Nordic countries remain acutely aware of Russia’s threat, with various forms of conscription already in place.
Norwegian officials are preparing for mass evacuation drills in some of the northernmost towns, as Norway shares a 121-mile border with Russia in the Arctic. The country is also hosting a NATO exercise next year, with plans for civilian involvement.
