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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Zahra Mulroy

Police advise people to not leave home without 'emergency bag' - and get called 'crass'

There are a few basics we all leave the house with. Keys, wallet, phone and, if you have a handbag (or man bag) then you're able to equip yourself further for the day.

But according to numerous police forces across the UK, we could be a lot better prepared.

The "grab bag" phenomenon was originally championed by authorities in the US, which has been battered by storms and floods in parts.

Having been picked up on over here, however, it's been met with concern.

So what should we, in theory, be packing in these grab bags?

  • Pen and notepad

  • Personal toiletries

  • Phone charger and battery bank

  • Flashlight

  • Seasonal clothing

  • Radio

  • Batteries

  • Whistle

  • First aid kit

  • Emergency plan

For other police forces, extra items were added, including, nappies, food, toys and prescription medicines.

In response to the emergency measures, people hit back with criticism and accusations of scaremongering.

One man wrote: "This is crass. Scaring people with no explanations. What emergencies do you envisage? Brexit ? War? Civil disturbance? Flood? Pestilence? Nuclear accident? Martial Law?"

"This is an actual tweet from the Scottish Police. What should Scots be expecting in the coming months that require them to have emergency kits at the ready in their homes?" another added.

One woman pointed out that essentially what's a zombie apocalypse bag being promoted in the US doesn't mean we should jump on the same bandwagon in the UK, writing:

"This is an initiative from the USA's Dept of Homeland Security. Why are you promoting it? Has this directive come from UK/Sco Govt?!"

Looks like this idea might be more of a slow burner.

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