Only 35% of Finnish households have enough bottled water for three days. Authorities recommend storing at least five liters per person for emergency situations.
This represents a major gap in household preparedness despite overall improvement in readiness levels. A recent survey shows half of Finnish households now meet the 72-hour self-sufficiency standard. That number has risen from just 35% two years ago.
Water availability remains the biggest challenge. About half of respondents doubt they could manage without water or electricity for three days, though most have adequate food supplies.
An overwhelming 82% of Finns consider household preparedness crucial for society's crisis resilience. Extended water supply disruptions and prolonged power outages are seen as the most challenging scenarios.
Markus Latva-aho, the preparedness director, emphasized the positive attitude toward preparedness in an official statement. He reminded every home should store at least five liters of bottled water per person.
Learning practical skills like staying warm in a cooling apartment during winter power outages also matters greatly. Clean drinking water and electricity for district heating in apartment buildings are basic needs many would struggle without, Latva-aho noted.
Households with residents over 65 show the best preparedness levels. Younger people, low-income families, and urban dwellers typically have weaker emergency supplies.
Common reasons for inadequate preparation include indifference, trust in society's functioning, and financial constraints. Nearly one-third consider preparedness too expensive.
Four out of five Finns have seen preparedness guidelines, but this knowledge doesn't always translate into action. This gap indicates continuous public awareness efforts remain necessary.
Emergency authorities recommend these essential supplies:
Clean covered water containers
Bottled water (minimum 5 liters per person)
Easy-to-prepare food suitable for all family members
Pet food and water
Battery-powered radio and flashlight
Charged power bank for mobile devices
Camping stove with fuel and matches
Essential medications
Plastic bags and toilet paper
Hygiene products like wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Firewood for those with fireplaces or wood stoves
Fire extinguisher or fire blanket
Many Finnish households still prioritize daily expenses over emergency preparations despite clear risks. This disconnect between awareness and action could prove costly during actual crises.