GUIDE72

Where every fact comes from

Every figure and instruction in Ready in 7 Days, with its source (almost always official), the exact link and the day we checked it. If something changes or a link stops working, write to us at hola@guide72.com.

301 facts with their source · checked on 03/11/2026

Before you start

  1. On 28 April 2025, at 12:33, the power went out across mainland Spain and Portugal.

    Government of Spain, Report of the Committee for the analysis of the electricity crisis of 28 April 2025 (non-confidential version, June 2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. In many homes the power did not come back until night or the early hours: restoration finished at 7:00 on the 29th.

    Government of Spain, Report of the Committee for the analysis of the electricity crisis of 28 April 2025 (non-confidential version, June 2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Trains stopped on the track: between 30,000 and 35,000 passengers were evacuated.

    EFE news agency, 28/04/2025 (republished by La Prensa de Panamá, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Many card machines and cash machines failed during the blackout.

    European Central Bank, "Keep calm and carry cash", Economic Bulletin 6/2025 · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. The European Commission asks people to be able to cope on their own for at least 72 hours.

    European Commission, Preparedness Union Strategy (March 2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. The Preparedness Union Strategy plans guidelines for a population self-sufficiency of at least 72 hours.

    European Commission, Preparedness Union Strategy, JOIN(2025) 130 final (26/03/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Spain's national family emergency plan includes a basic 72-hour emergency kit.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  8. In an emergency the usual instruction is to stay at home; you leave only if the authorities say so.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Get ready for emergencies" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  9. 65% of people surveyed in Spain had no emergency kit or anything like it at home before the blackout (a survey of people, not households).

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  10. 42% (41.6%) missed something at home while the blackout lasted.

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  11. On the day of the blackout the Madrid Region fire brigade made more than 200 call-outs, most of them to get people out of lifts.

    Madrid Region, 2025 report of the Fire Brigade (16/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  12. For a baby: nappies, formula and bottles in the kit.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  13. For older people: their medication, spare glasses and hearing-aid batteries.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Civil protection for older people" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  14. Visit or call older or sick people who live alone at least once a day.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. Pets need their food, water and medication for several days.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  16. If someone depends on an electrical device, make a plan with their doctor for using it during a power cut.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  17. Phone alerts come with a sound, a visual signal and vibration.

    BBK (Germany), "Cell Broadcast" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

Day 1 · The plan on paper

  1. On 28 April, phones not working was the second thing people missed most (55.5%).

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Keep your family's phone numbers on paper as well as on your phone.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Family emergency plan" (in Catalan) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Choose a meeting point and a contact who lives outside the area, to link everyone.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Family emergency plan" (in Catalan) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Write in the plan what each person does, such as who collects whom.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. Everyone at home has to know the plan.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Getting ready for an emergency" (June 2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

Day 2 · Water

  1. Without electricity the waterworks can stop: a long power cut can also cut the water.

    BBK, German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Catalan Civil Protection sets the minimum at 1.5 litres per person per day, just for drinking.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Keep drinking water for at least three days, plus water for cooking and for pets.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Keep bottled water sealed, in its original container, somewhere cool and dark.

    Ready.gov (FEMA, US), "Water" (Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. About 3 litres of water per person per day.

    Government of the Netherlands, Ministry of Justice and Security (NCTV), Denk vooruit: "Putting together an emergency kit"

  6. 3 litres per person per day for drinking and food preparation: 9 litres each for three days.

    Danish Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), "Prepared for crises"

Day 3 · Food with no fridge

  1. With the door shut, a fridge stays cold for about 4 hours.

    Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), "What to do with food from the fridge and freezer after the blackout?" (29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Long-life food that needs no cooking, if you are staying at home.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Keep a manual can opener.

    Ready.gov (FEMA, US), "Emergency kit" (Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Matches or a lighter in the kit.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. Do not barbecue indoors: there is a risk of suffocation from the fumes.

    BBK (Germany), "Vorsorge und Handeln bei Stromausfall" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Camping stoves and charcoal grills are for outdoors, never indoors.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  7. Carbon monoxide cannot be seen or smelled and can kill.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Avoid poisoning from boilers, stoves, heaters and chimneys" (07/01/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  8. Never block the air vents of gas appliances.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. 35% (34.9%) of those who missed something said it was a way to cook without power.

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

Day 4 · Light and power

  1. Do not use candles: a torch is better.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Civil protection for older people" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Leaving candles burning is very dangerous.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Safety at home" (05/08/2024, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. A torch with spare batteries, or a head torch.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. A phone with its charger and, if possible, a power bank.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. 10% of those who missed something said it was torches, candles or something similar.

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

Day 5 · News without the internet

  1. A battery or wind-up radio in the kit.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. A battery or wind-up radio in the kit.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Keep a portable radio, a torch and batteries, and follow the news on radio and television.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "General Instructions" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. On 28 April, 112 Extremadura asked people to follow the news media.

    112 Extremadura (Spain), blackout advice broadcast by Canal Extremadura (28/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. Get your information only from official channels and do not spread rumours.

    Spanish Red Cross, "What you need to know if the authorities order you to leave your home" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  6. 112 is only for emergencies: it is not an information service.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergencies" (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. 112 is free and works across the European Union, from landlines and mobiles.

    European Commission, "112: the EU emergency number" (updated 23/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Calls to 112 in the Basque Country quadrupled in the first 4 or 5 hours of the blackout.

    Basque Government, Director of Emergency Response, in Orain (EITB, 29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  9. 46.8% had no battery radio at home.

    Spanish Centre for Sociological Research (CIS), study 3513: snap survey on the 28 April blackout (29–30/04/2025, 1,752 interviews, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  10. Never run a car inside a garage, even with the door open.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

Day 6 · Health, papers and cash

  1. During the blackout many card machines and cash machines failed, and card payments fell by 41–42% in the affected areas.

    European Central Bank, "Keep calm and carry cash", Economic Bulletin 6/2025 · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. ID card, health card and insurance policies, best in a waterproof bag.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. A first aid kit with dressings, your usual medication and prescriptions.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. The 72-hour kit includes your usual medicines.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. If you depend on medicines that need to stay cold, ask your doctor or pharmacist what to do without power.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  6. Cash in small notes.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  7. The Netherlands and Austria suggest €70 to €100 per person; the ECB quotes them.

    European Central Bank, "Keep calm and carry cash", Economic Bulletin 6/2025 · consultado el 31/10/2026

  8. Spare glasses and hearing-aid batteries.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Civil protection for older people" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

Day 7 and the Clock-Change Rule

  1. Run drills: practising the plan often is what makes it work.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Getting ready for an emergency" (June 2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Practise, correct and update the family plan from time to time.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. The clocks change on the last Sunday in March and the last Sunday in October, in every EU country.

    Directive 2000/84/EC on summer-time arrangements, Articles 2 and 3 (EUR-Lex)

  4. Check the emergency kit every six months and replace what is out of date.

    Government of the Netherlands, Ministry of Justice and Security (NCTV), Denk vooruit: "Putting together an emergency kit"

Shopping · Your budget and the one-hour minimum kit

  1. The basic kit: phone power bank, torch, radio, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food and medicines.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. A wind-up radio does the same job as a battery one.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Keep a manual can opener.

    Ready.gov (FEMA, US), "Emergency kit" (Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Keep the kit somewhere visible at home.

    Spanish Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies, "Family emergency plan" (Psychology Unit, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

The power goes off: the blackout card

  1. Use a torch, not candles.

    Government of Catalonia, Civil Protection: "Civil protection for older people" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Do not open the freezer, and open the fridge as little as possible: the storage times only hold with the doors shut.

    Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), "What to do with food from the fridge and freezer after the blackout?" (29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Fill containers or the bath with tap water.

    112 Extremadura (Spain), blackout advice broadcast by Canal Extremadura (28/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Unplug electrical and electronic devices so they are not damaged when the power comes back.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. When the power goes, switch off heaters and electric heating devices so they do not start up by themselves when it comes back.

    BBK (Germany), "Stromausfall: Vorsorge und Selbsthilfe" (2026, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. If the lines are busy, send text messages instead of calling.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Family emergency plan" (in Catalan) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  7. 112 is only for emergencies.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergencies" (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Do not travel unless you need to.

    112 Extremadura (Spain), blackout advice broadcast by Canal Extremadura (28/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  9. Use your phone as little as possible to save the battery.

    112 Extremadura (Spain), blackout advice broadcast by Canal Extremadura (28/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  10. If you are apart, follow the plan: the meeting point and the outside contact.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Family emergency plan" (in Catalan) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  11. Look out for relatives and neighbours who are dependent or vulnerable.

    112 Extremadura (Spain), blackout advice broadcast by Canal Extremadura (28/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  12. If the power is off for more than 4 hours, throw away meat, fish, eggs, milk, soft cheese and leftovers.

    Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), "What to do with food from the fridge and freezer after the blackout?" (29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  13. After 4 hours without power, throw away perishable food from the fridge. If in doubt, throw it out.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Do not trust how food looks or smells, and do not taste it to check.

    Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), "What to do with food from the fridge and freezer after the blackout?" (29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  15. A closed freezer lasts 24 to 48 hours; anything that still has ice crystals can be refrozen.

    Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN), "What to do with food from the fridge and freezer after the blackout?" (29/04/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  16. The usual instruction is to stay at home; you leave only if the authorities say so.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Get ready for emergencies" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  17. Generators must never be used indoors: the fumes can suffocate.

    BBK (Germany), "Stromausfall: Vorsorge und Selbsthilfe" (2026, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. Generators, camping stoves and grills, never indoors: carbon monoxide kills.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

The water is off

  1. Stored water is for when nothing comes out of the tap or it comes out dirty; drinking matters more than eating.

    BBK, German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Sign up for your water company's text alerts.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Keep clean containers or buckets with lids to fetch and store water.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Wet wipes, hand gel and strong bin bags for the toilet.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Wet wipes, hand gel and strong bin bags for the toilet.

    BBK, German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Check your water company's website or call it to find out about the outage.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Drink the water you have stored.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. If the toilet cannot be used for a long time, follow your local waste service's instructions.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. Large, strong bin bags to hang in the toilet.

    BBK, German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. If a water distribution point opens, fetch water there, and help neighbours by bringing them some.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Follow your water company and your council.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. When the water comes back, let it run until it runs clear.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. Do not use water with an unusual colour, smell or taste, and tell your water company.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Filters and purification tablets may not remove everything: do not rely on them alone.

    Finnish Government, suomi.fi: "Water outage and water contamination" (updated 02/09/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. Bringing water to a rolling boil is enough; then let it cool on its own, without adding ice, and keep it covered.

    WHO, "Boil water", technical note WHO/FWC/WSH/15.02 (14/01/2015) · consultado el 02/11/2026

It's very hot, maybe with no power

  1. Pick the coolest room in the house and spend time there, especially at night.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. If your home cannot be kept cool, spend 2–3 hours a day somewhere cool.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. If your home cannot be kept cool, spend 2–3 hours a day somewhere cool.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Visit older or sick people who live alone at least once a day.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Meteoalarm brings together the warnings of Europe's national weather services, including heat.

    Meteoalarm (EUMETNET), "About" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Close windows, shutters and curtains during the day, especially on the sunny side; open them at night when it is cooler outside.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Close windows, shutters and curtains during the day, especially on the sunny side; open them at night when it is cooler outside.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Switch off lights and as many devices as possible, but not the fridge.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. Drink regularly; avoid alcohol and too much caffeine or sugar.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. Drink regularly; avoid alcohol and too much caffeine or sugar.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Cool showers or baths, and light, loose clothes.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Keep medicines below 25 °C or in the fridge.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. Older people, babies and people with chronic illness are most at risk from heat.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Dizziness, weakness, intense thirst or headache: move somewhere cool, rest and drink water or fruit juice; see a doctor if it does not pass.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. Hot, dry skin, confusion, fits or unconsciousness: call for medical help at once. Meanwhile, somewhere cool, lying down, clothes off, cold wet cloths and fanning.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  16. 112 is the emergency number across the EU.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergencies" (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  17. Never leave children, dependent adults or pets in a parked car.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. Avoid physical effort in the hottest part of the day.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  19. Above 35 °C a fan may not prevent heat-related illness.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  20. Do not give aspirin or paracetamol for heatstroke.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

It's very cold and the heating is off

  1. Without electricity your heating may not work either, and rooms cool down quickly.

    BBK (Germany), "Ratgeber für Notfallvorsorge" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Gather in one small room, and seal gaps around doors and windows without blocking exits.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Warm clothes, blankets and sleeping bags to get through for a while.

    BBK (Germany), "Ratgeber für Notfallvorsorge" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Warm clothes, blankets and sleeping bags to get through for a while.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Fit approved carbon monoxide alarms.

    BBK (Germany), "Ratgeber für Notfallvorsorge" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Have heating, hot-water appliances and chimneys checked by a professional every year.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Meteoalarm brings together the warnings of Europe's national weather services, including cold.

    Meteoalarm (EUMETNET), "About" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Layers of clothing, a hat, gloves and thick socks.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. Hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day.

    HSE (Ireland), "Keeping warm in winter" (reviewed 23/12/2022)

  10. Air the room thoroughly for a few minutes regularly, even when it is cold.

    BBK (Germany), "Ratgeber für Notfallvorsorge" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Air the room thoroughly for a few minutes regularly, even when it is cold.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Older people, children and people with chronic illness may need a warmer home than others.

    WHO, Housing and health guidelines (23/11/2018) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. If it gets too cold, go to community premises or a warm public place.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Signs of hypothermia: shivering, pale cold skin, slurred speech, slow breathing, tiredness or confusion; call 112.

    HSE (Ireland), "Keeping warm in winter" (reviewed 23/12/2022)

  15. Hypothermia: remove wet clothes and use blankets to warm the person.

    European Resuscitation Council, "ERC Guidelines 2025 for Everyone" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  16. Carbon monoxide: headache, tiredness and nausea, often in several people at home. Air the room, switch off the appliance, get out and call the emergency services.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  17. Never heat your home with cookers, braziers or barbecues.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. Generators are never used indoors: risk of suffocation from the fumes.

    BBK (Germany), "Stromausfall: Vorsorge und Selbsthilfe" (2026, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  19. Do not use a stove or candles while you sleep.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  20. Never block air vents.

    Santé publique France, carbon monoxide poisoning: the right habits (24/11/2020, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  21. Never block air vents.

    HSE (Ireland), "Keeping warm in winter" (reviewed 23/12/2022)

A flood or a flood warning

  1. In a river flood the authorities can have days of warning; public warnings come from each country's services.

    ECMWF, "Storm Boris and European flooding September 2024" (23/10/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. In a flood, the safest places are higher ground and upper floors; never go into the cellar.

    BBK, German Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (2nd ed., 11/2025, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Ask your council whether your home is in a flood-risk area.

    BBK (Germany), "Gut vorbereitet auf Hochwasser" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Ask your council whether your home is in a flood-risk area.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Follow the news, forecasts and official alert apps, and keep a battery or wind-up radio.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Follow the news, forecasts and official alert apps, and keep a battery or wind-up radio.

    BBK (Germany), "Gut vorbereitet auf Hochwasser" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Medicines and medical documents in waterproof bags.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. If someone at home will need help to leave, tell the local authorities.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. With a warning, move valuable furniture and devices upstairs, and get the car out of garages at risk in time.

    BBK (Germany), "Gut vorbereitet auf Hochwasser" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. With a warning, move valuable furniture and devices upstairs, and get the car out of garages at risk in time.

    BBK (Germany), "Was tun bei Hochwasser?" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Sandbags and boards at the entrances.

    BBK (Germany), "Gut vorbereitet auf Hochwasser" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Sandbags and boards at the entrances.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. Turn off gas, water and electricity.

    Government of the Netherlands, "Wat moet ik doen bij een dreigende overstroming?" (in Dutch) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Never switch on, switch off or use an electrical device while standing in water.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. If you are told to evacuate, do it.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  16. If you stay, go to the highest point of the house and check whether you could get out through a roof window or with a ladder.

    Government of the Netherlands, "Wat moet ik doen bij een dreigende overstroming?" (in Dutch) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  17. If you are trapped up high, wait to be rescued without going into the water.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. In a flood, call 112.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  19. Go home only when the authorities say so, and have gas and electrical appliances checked by a professional before using them.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  20. Do not drink tap water without boiling it unless the local authorities say otherwise.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice for flooding in Western Europe" (20/07/2021) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  21. Throw away any food that has touched flood water.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  22. Clean up with a mask, rubber boots and waterproof gloves, and keep children away from muddy or contaminated areas.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  23. Photograph and film the damage, and contact your insurer.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  24. Do not stay in the cellar during a flood, and avoid underground garages: they can become death traps.

    BBK (Germany), "Was tun bei Hochwasser?" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  25. Do not walk or drive through flood water: it can hide sharp objects and fallen cables.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  26. Keep away from river banks: they can give way.

    BBK (Germany), "Was tun bei Hochwasser?" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  27. Do not use petrol or diesel generators indoors.

    WHO Europe, "Protecting your health before, during and after floods" (15/11/2024) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  28. River floods can give days of warning; with flash floods from heavy rain, authorities often have only minutes.

    World Health Organization (Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean), "Understanding floods and their impact" infographic

A storm, strong winds or snow

  1. Meteoalarm brings together the official warnings of Europe's national weather services, with a common yellow, orange and red code.

    Meteoalarm (EUMETNET), "About" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Protect your home and anything exposed to the wind.

    Météo-France, vigilance advice: violent winds, orange (in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Charge your phone before the storm.

    Government of Ireland, National Emergency Co-ordination Group on Storm Éowyn (24/01/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. With snow or ice forecast, stay at home if you can, with food and drink in stock.

    BBK (Germany), "Vorsorge und Handeln bei Kälte und Schneefall" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Stay indoors, away from windows. With a red warning, shelter in place.

    Government of Ireland, Office of Emergency Planning, "Storms" (updated 31/08/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. With a red wind warning: shut doors, windows and shutters, do not use the car and stay at home.

    Météo-France, vigilance advice: violent winds, orange (in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. In snow, limit travel; if you drive, take food and blankets. With a red warning, leave a stuck car only if the authorities tell you to.

    Météo-France, vigilance advice: snow and ice (in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. The period after a storm can be the most dangerous: fallen lines, trees and debris.

    Government of Ireland, National Emergency Co-ordination Group on Storm Éowyn (24/01/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. Avoid woods: branches and trees can fall.

    BBK (Germany), "Vorsorge und Handeln bei Sturm, Gewitter und Hagel" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. Do not climb onto roofs.

    Météo-France, vigilance advice: violent winds, orange (in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Keep away from sloping roofs: snow and icicles can fall.

    BBK (Germany), "Vorsorge und Handeln bei Kälte und Schneefall" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Fallen power line: do not approach or touch it, and call the network operator or 112.

    Government of Ireland, Office of Emergency Planning, "Storms" (updated 31/08/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. Stay back from cliffs, piers and exposed coast.

    Government of Ireland, Office of Emergency Planning, "Storms" (updated 31/08/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Yellow: be aware and take no avoidable risks. Orange: be prepared. Red: take action and follow the authorities' instructions.

    Met Éireann (Ireland's national weather service, a Meteoalarm member), "Weather warnings explanation"

A wildfire nearby

  1. Some countries prepare villages with shelters and evacuation drills for when a fire comes.

    Portugal, National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC), "Aldeia Segura, Pessoas Seguras" (20/01/2023, in Portuguese) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Follow the authorities' instructions to move or evacuate; otherwise stay indoors.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Keep a strip of at least 10 m around the house clear of dry leaves, pine needles and branches, without breaking forest law.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Clearing around homes before summer is compulsory in risk areas.

    France, Ministry for Ecological Transition, "Feux de forêt et de végétation : ayons les bons réflexes" (updated 03/06/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Firewood and gas bottles away from the house, in a closed place.

    France, Ministry for Ecological Transition, "Feux de forêt et de végétation : ayons les bons réflexes" (updated 03/06/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Firewood and gas bottles away from the house, in a closed place.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. A hose that reaches all round the house.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. If you see a fire, call at once: say where you are, where the fire is and which way it is moving.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. If you see a fire, call 112.

    France, Ministry for Ecological Transition, "Feux de forêt et de végétation : ayons les bons réflexes" (updated 03/06/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. If it comes close: shut chimneys, windows and doors, block gaps with wet cloths and turn off the gas.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Open the garden gate for the fire service.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. With smoke, stay indoors with doors and windows shut and air conditioning on recirculate.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. If you must go out, a well-fitting FFP2 or N95 mask.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. Children, older people, pregnant women and people with chronic illness are most at risk: help them.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. If you are told to leave, follow the authorities' instructions and routes strictly.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  16. If you have to evacuate, take your pet in its carrier.

    MCF (Sweden), "Preparedness for your pets" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  17. In the car: headlights on in daytime, windows shut and air on recirculate.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. After the fire, watch the area round the house for at least 48 hours in case it flares up.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  19. A car is not a safe shelter: it can catch fire.

    France, Ministry for Ecological Transition, "Feux de forêt et de végétation : ayons les bons réflexes" (updated 03/06/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  20. A car is not a safe shelter: it can catch fire.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "Forest Fires" · consultado el 02/11/2026

An alert goes off on your phone

  1. Since 21 June 2022, EU countries with a public warning system must send the warnings to the phones of people in the area.

    BEREC, Guidelines on public warning systems, BoR (20) 115 (12/06/2020), which reproduces Article 110 of Directive (EU) 2018/1972 · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. The alerts are free, need no registration and also reach people who are only visiting.

    BEREC, Guidelines on public warning systems, BoR (20) 115 (12/06/2020), which reproduces Article 110 of Directive (EU) 2018/1972 · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Each country has chosen its own system: most use cell broadcast, some location-based text messages or apps.

    BEREC, database of public warning systems in each country · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. NL-Alert in the Netherlands: free and anonymous.

    Government of the Netherlands, NL-Alert · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. IT-alert in Italy: no app or registration needed.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. FR-Alert in France: no registration or app needed.

    France, Ministry of the Interior, "Tout savoir sur le dispositif national FR-Alert" (19/10/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. In Germany, alerts reach phones with Android 11 or iOS 16.1 or later, switched on and not in flight mode.

    BBK (Germany), "Cell Broadcast" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. In Austria, Android 11 or iOS 17.4 or later.

    Austria, Federal Ministry of the Interior, AT-Alert · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. In Greece you can register to get alerts by text, email or a call to a landline, for up to three addresses.

    Greece, gov.gr: "112 GR-Alert" notifications for registered citizens (updated 27/07/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. In Belgium you can register to get alerts for your addresses even when you are not there.

    Belgium, BE-Alert: "What is BE-Alert?" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Phones that are off, in flight mode, on wifi only or with no signal do not get the alert.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Phones that are off, in flight mode, on wifi only or with no signal do not get the alert.

    France, Ministry of the Interior, "Tout savoir sur le dispositif national FR-Alert" (19/10/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. On silent the alert may not sound (Italy); in France and Austria it does.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  14. On silent the alert may not sound (Italy); in France and Austria it does.

    France, Ministry of the Interior, "Tout savoir sur le dispositif national FR-Alert" (19/10/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  15. On silent the alert may not sound (Italy); in France and Austria it does.

    Austria, Federal Ministry of the Interior, AT-Alert · consultado el 02/11/2026

  16. The highest alert level appears on every compatible phone; the others come switched on but can be turned off.

    BEREC, Guidelines on public warning systems, BoR (20) 115 (12/06/2020), which reproduces Article 110 of Directive (EU) 2018/1972 · consultado el 02/11/2026

  17. Stop what you are doing, read the alert and follow its advice.

    Norway, Emergency alert: "About emergency alert" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  18. Stop what you are doing, read the alert and follow its advice.

    Government of the Netherlands, NL-Alert · consultado el 02/11/2026

  19. If you are driving, do not touch the phone until you have stopped.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  20. Read it, act, and help the people around you.

    Government of the Netherlands, NL-Alert · consultado el 02/11/2026

  21. Tell your family and neighbours: that is how the warning reaches those without a phone or radio.

    BBK (Germany), "Sirenen" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  22. Follow the radio, TV and official websites; more messages may follow.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  23. Follow the radio, TV and official websites; more messages may follow.

    France, Ministry of the Interior, "Tout savoir sur le dispositif national FR-Alert" (19/10/2026, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  24. A missed alert can be found again in the phone's list of emergency alerts or on the system's website.

    BEREC, Guidelines on public warning systems, BoR (20) 115 (12/06/2020), which reproduces Article 110 of Directive (EU) 2018/1972 · consultado el 02/11/2026

  25. A missed alert can be found again in the phone's list of emergency alerts or on the system's website.

    Italian Civil Protection, IT-alert FAQ · consultado el 02/11/2026

  26. Since 21 June 2022, EU countries with a public warning system must send its warnings to the phones of the people concerned, by mobile network or an equivalent app.

    Directive (EU) 2018/1972, European Electronic Communications Code, Article 110 (EUR-Lex)

You're told to leave home in 10 minutes

  1. When leaving in a hurry: tell everyone, especially children and older people, and help whoever cannot get their things ready.

    MCF (Sweden), "If you need to evacuate" (revised 14/11/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Take ID, medicines and aids such as glasses or hearing aids, something to eat and drink, and your phone and charger.

    MCF (Sweden), "If you need to evacuate" (revised 14/11/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. If you have to evacuate, take your pet in its carrier.

    MCF (Sweden), "Preparedness for your pets" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Turn off gas and electricity and lock the door.

    MCF (Sweden), "If you need to evacuate" (revised 14/11/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. If there is time, disconnect the electricity and gas and shut doors and windows.

    Spanish Red Cross, "What you need to know if the authorities order you to leave your home" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  6. Follow the authorities' instructions and routes strictly.

    Greece, Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, "General Instructions" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. If the lines are busy, text your outside contact.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Family emergency plan" (in Catalan) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  8. When the warning siren sounds: go indoors, shut doors and windows, turn off ventilation if you can and listen to the radio.

    MCF (Sweden), "About the warning and information systems" (revised 03/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. When you hear the siren or get an alert: shelter in a solid building, listen to the radio, do not fetch children from school and limit calls.

    France, Prefecture of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, "Réflexes pour bien réagir" (2022, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. A siren means danger: find out more on the radio, TV, app or website, and tell neighbours.

    BBK (Germany), "Sirenen" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Siren signals differ: in Germany a rising and falling tone for one minute; in Sweden 7 seconds of sound and 14 of silence for 2 minutes.

    BBK (Germany), "Sirenen" (in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  12. Siren signals differ: in Germany a rising and falling tone for one minute; in Sweden 7 seconds of sound and 14 of silence for 2 minutes.

    MCF (Sweden), "About the warning and information systems" (revised 03/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  13. Use only the routes the authorities give.

    Spanish Red Cross, "What you need to know if the authorities order you to leave your home" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  14. Get your information only from official channels and do not spread rumours.

    Spanish Red Cross, "What you need to know if the authorities order you to leave your home" (in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  15. 112 is not an information service.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergencies" (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

The grab-and-go bag

  1. For leaving home: spare clothes and shoes, a raincoat, toiletries and house and car keys.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. A whistle to call for help, a foil emergency blanket and a multi-tool.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. A list of emergency contacts and copies of documents.

    Spanish Red Cross, "Shall we check the kit?" checklist (2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. In an evacuation: ID, medicines and aids (glasses, hearing aids, walker), food and drink, warm clothes, phone and charger, and a paper list of phone numbers.

    MCF (Sweden), "If you need to evacuate" (revised 14/11/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. FFP2 masks against smoke.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice during the wildfires" (16/06/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Children with an ID wristband in case they get lost.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  7. For babies, nappies and their food.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  8. Pet: carrier, lead and muzzle, food, water and bowls, its papers and a photo of you together.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  9. Its health booklet and any medication it takes.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  10. Outdoors in the heat: a hat and sunglasses.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. Hat, gloves and thick socks against the cold.

    MCF, Swedish Civil Defence and Resilience Agency, "Access to heat during a crisis" (revised 30/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

In depth · The car

  1. EU countries have different rules on compulsory safety equipment in the car and on winter tyres; seat belts and child restraints are required everywhere.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Road rules and safety" (last checked 23/12/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. In winter, in the boot: torch, blanket, gloves, boots, food and drink.

    DGT (Spain), "Ice and snow: grip at its limit" (01/12/2021, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. A small shovel if you are going to snowy mountains, and a scraper.

    DGT (Spain), "Ice and snow: grip at its limit" (01/12/2021, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Check the weather warnings before you set off.

    Meteoalarm (EUMETNET), "About" · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. Stuck in snow: stay in the car and call 112 with your location.

    DGT, Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic, "Road emergencies: do you know what to do?" (updated 06/05/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  6. With the engine and heating on, let fresh air in and make sure snow is not blocking the exhaust.

    DGT, Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic, "Road emergencies: do you know what to do?" (updated 06/05/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  7. Never leave anyone, or an animal, in a parked car.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Drink before you are thirsty.

    DGT magazine (Spain), "Eight tips for a good trip this summer" (03/07/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  9. Avoid going out in the hottest part of the day.

    WHO Europe, "Public health advice on preventing health effects of heat" (2011) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. Each child in the right approved car seat.

    DGT magazine (Spain), ten tips for travelling safely with children (23/07/2020, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  11. The pet in a carrier or harness, never loose; stop every two hours.

    DGT (Spain), "Travel safely with your pet" (updated 22/09/2025, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  12. eCall automatically calls 112 free of charge after a serious accident and sends the exact location; it can also be pressed by hand. Compulsory in cars approved after 31/03/2018.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergency assistance in vehicles: eCall" (last checked 21/10/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

In depth · Older people and dependants

  1. Each EU country defines its vulnerable electricity customers, and the definition may include critical dependence on electrical equipment for health reasons; EU law does not require a register.

    Directive (EU) 2019/944 on the internal market for electricity, Article 28 · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. With their doctor, a plan for using their devices and storing their medication during a power cut.

    FEMA (US), "Be prepared for a power outage" (P-2199, December 2023, Spanish edition) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. With someone who gets frightened or finds it hard to understand: short sentences, one instruction at a time.

    Spanish protocol for communicating with and assisting people with disabilities in emergencies (CERMI, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Never leave a person with a disability alone when leaving, and they go with their aids.

    Spanish protocol for communicating with and assisting people with disabilities in emergencies (CERMI, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. Generators are never used indoors: risk of suffocation from the fumes.

    BBK (Germany), "Stromausfall: Vorsorge und Selbsthilfe" (2026, in German) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. In Ireland, people who depend on electrically powered medical equipment can register as vulnerable customers with their energy supplier or network operator, and with the water utility.

    Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU, Ireland), "Vulnerable Customers"

In depth · Insurance and papers

  1. Natural catastrophe cover is often sold as an optional extra and may seem included when it is not.

    EIOPA, "Natural catastrophes, is your home covered?" (EIOPA-BoS-25-192, 19/05/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. Some policies that mention flooding exclude flooding caused by rain, or homes near a river or the sea: read the full terms, not only the summary.

    EIOPA, "Natural catastrophes, is your home covered?" (EIOPA-BoS-25-192, 19/05/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  3. Only 18% of EU consumers say they have cover for natural catastrophe damage.

    EIOPA, "Natural catastrophes, is your home covered?" (EIOPA-BoS-25-192, 19/05/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  4. Copies of insurance policies in a waterproof bag.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. After a flood, photograph and film the damage and contact your insurer.

    Ireland, Be Winter Ready: "Flood safety" leaflet (published by the Health and Safety Authority) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. To complain, go first to the insurer; if you are not satisfied, to the national authority or an out-of-court dispute body such as an ombudsman.

    EIOPA, "How can I complain?": complaints against an insurance company · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. FIN-NET helps settle disputes with financial firms in another EEA country out of court.

    European Commission, FIN-NET: financial dispute resolution network · consultado el 02/11/2026

In depth · Children

  1. With little ones, stories, drawings and short sentences; with older children, more detail and honest answers.

    Official College of Psychology of the Valencian Community and Valencian School Council, guidance after the DANA (November 2024, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  2. Including them in family decisions makes them feel valued.

    Official College of Psychology of the Valencian Community and Valencian School Council, guidance after the DANA (November 2024, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Telling them what will happen in the next few days lowers their anxiety.

    Official College of Psychology of the Valencian Community and Valencian School Council, guidance after the DANA (November 2024, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Keep routines for meals and sleep, and limit the news.

    UNICEF Europe and Central Asia, "How parents can support their children and themselves following distressing events" (05/05/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  5. It is fine not to have all the answers; adults also need support for themselves.

    UNICEF Europe and Central Asia, "How parents can support their children and themselves following distressing events" (05/05/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  6. Fears, nightmares, wetting the bed and clinging are normal reactions.

    UNICEF Europe and Central Asia, "How parents can support their children and themselves following distressing events" (05/05/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Seek professional help if reactions are severe, last more than a month or get worse.

    UNICEF Europe and Central Asia, "How parents can support their children and themselves following distressing events" (05/05/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. If children are sheltered at school, do not fetch them: the teachers keep them safe.

    France, Prefecture of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, "Réflexes pour bien réagir" (2022, in French) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. 116 111, the free children's helpline, works in most EU countries, though not yet all.

    Your Europe (European Union), single emergency number FAQ: 112 and the 116 lines (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

In depth · Pets and you

  1. To travel between EU countries with a dog, cat or ferret you need an EU pet passport, a microchip and a rabies vaccination.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Travelling with pets" (last checked 01/09/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  2. A registered microchip and a photo of you with your pet.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  3. Get it used to the carrier before you need it.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  4. Food, water and medication for several days, and its health booklet.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  5. Find out who could take it and which shelters or hotels accept animals.

    Government of Catalonia, Interior: "Emergency kit" (updated 26/02/2026, in Spanish) · consultado el 31/10/2026

  6. Never leave a pet in a parked car.

    WHO Europe, "#KeepCool in the heat" (08/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  7. Almost everyone affected by an emergency feels distress (anxiety, sadness, poor sleep, tiredness, irritability), and it usually improves over time.

    WHO, "Mental health in emergencies" (06/05/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  8. Support from family and community helps.

    WHO, "Mental health in emergencies" (06/05/2025) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  9. Look after yourself: eat, drink, rest and avoid alcohol.

    UNICEF Europe and Central Asia, "How parents can support their children and themselves following distressing events" (05/05/2023) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  10. 116 123, the free emotional support line, works in most EU countries, though not yet all.

    Your Europe (European Union), single emergency number FAQ: 112 and the 116 lines (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

  11. 112 is the emergency number across the EU.

    Your Europe (European Union), "Emergencies" (last checked 22/06/2026) · consultado el 02/11/2026

Our own advice

These tips in the guide do not come from an official source: they come from how homes, buildings and appliances work, or from common sense. We list them here so you know which ones they are.

  1. In many buildings water is pumped up to the higher floors electrically: with no power, the water can go too.

  2. With no power, electric garage doors and shutters will not move, and the front door will not open with a fob or keypad: find the manual release.

  3. With no power, the electric ignition of a gas cooker will not spark: you need matches or a lighter.

  4. A 10,000–20,000 mAh power bank gives roughly 2 to 4 phone charges, depending on the phone.

  5. Download the map of your area on your phone for offline use.

  6. Call 112 when someone is in danger, injured or trapped, or there is a fire.

  7. Check whether it is just your home: the fuse box and the neighbours' windows.

  8. Leave one light on so you know when the power is back.

  9. A text needs signal but not internet; in flight mode neither texts nor alerts arrive, so turn it off now and then.

  10. Do not use the lift; if someone is stuck inside, do not force the doors: call 112 and keep talking to them.

  11. When the power comes back, plug devices back in gradually.

  12. Find your water stopcock.

  13. Drinking water first for babies, older people and anyone unwell.

  14. Do not drink water from an unknown source.

  15. Do not add bleach to drinking water unless you are officially told to.

  16. Many heating systems stop without electricity, even gas or oil boilers.

  17. The warm room, ideally without outside walls.

  18. Check on neighbours who live alone, by phone if you cannot get there.

  19. If they say go, go early: do not wait to see how close the fire gets.

  20. Do not drive towards the fire or into thick smoke.

  21. If you can see the danger, act: do not wait for an alert.

  22. In a long power cut the phone masts can go down and alerts may not arrive.

  23. Do not call 112 to ask whether an alert is real.

  24. Do not go out to look at the danger.

  25. Do not go back for belongings.

  26. FFP2 masks filter dust and smoke particles, not gases.

  27. A portable jump starter gets the car going with a flat battery without waiting for another car, and charges your phone; jump leads need another car's battery.

  28. If the battery is about to run out and the power is not back, call 112 with the margin their doctor gave you.

  29. Keep the medical equipment charged all the time, not only when a storm is forecast.

  30. No candles or flames near oxygen.

  31. Film your home room by room and photograph valuables; keep a copy outside the house.

  32. Before cleaning or throwing anything away, photograph the damage and keep receipts for urgent work.

  33. Ask your insurer before throwing away things that cannot be cleaned, such as carpets and mattresses.

  34. Explain it to children on a calm day, and give them a job: feeling useful calms them.

  35. Get your news from one source, at set times, not all day.

  36. If weeks later you still cannot sleep, or the anxiety or low mood will not lift, see your doctor.