Practical guides

Baofeng UV-5R in the UK: when you need an Ofcom licence, why it isn't a PMR446 radio, and how to set it up and program channels safely.

Seven camping stoves for UK power cuts compared from makers' figures: fuel, boil time, weight and ignition, plus why every stove stays outdoors only.

Calories and protein per tin for common UK tinned foods, from the labels, ranked by energy, with how many tins match the NHS adult reference for a day.

Lights out? Check if it’s just your home, check the trip switches safely, and report a power cut on 105 in Great Britain or to NIE Networks.

A calm, printable power cut kit list for UK homes covering light, power, warmth, food, water and contacts. Build yours with our kit tracker.

Build an emergency plan around communication, assistance, transport and access, with practical checks for disabled people and their support networks.

Agree school collection, backup adults and meeting points for days when travel, phone networks or access to home are disrupted.

Plan essential household tasks, care, supplies and decisions during disruption lasting beyond a few days, without relying on large stockpiles.

Understand UK amateur radio training, Ofcom licensing, realistic range, practice and emergency-volunteering options before buying a transmitter.

Build a manageable freezer meal reserve with safe cooling, clear labels, useful portions and an inventory that prevents forgotten food.

Record possessions, replacement values and policy details before a claim, with useful photographs, secure backups and no coverage assumptions.

Cool burns promptly, know when emergency care is needed, and prepare for kitchen, child, chemical and electrical injuries safely.